Coral Bells
Heuchera spp.
Quick Care Guide
Prune: Remove spent flower stalks and damaged leaves
Sunlight: Partial shade preferred; some tolerate full sun
Water: Weekly or when top inch of soil is dry
Fertilize: Once in spring with balanced fertilizer
Leaves: Colorful foliage in shades of green, purple, bronze, or variegated
Flowers: Tall, airy spikes with small bell-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer
Pruning
Coral bells require minimal pruning. Remove faded flower stalks after blooming to keep the plant tidy and promote more blooms. Trim away any dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season to maintain a neat appearance. In early spring, clean up the plant by removing old foliage to make way for new growth.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot or dry periods. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Avoid letting the crown sit in water, as this can lead to crown rot.
Leaves
The foliage of coral bells is the star of the show, with a wide array of colors and textures. Leaves may be ruffled or smooth, and come in vibrant shades of lime green, deep burgundy, silver, peach, or variegated combinations. The leaves provide year-round interest and are semi-evergreen in mild climates.
Sunlight
Coral bells thrive in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, especially varieties with darker foliage. In hotter regions, they prefer morning sun and afternoon shade to avoid leaf scorch. Too much shade can cause leggy growth and reduce flower production.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) once in early spring to support healthy foliage and flowers. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nutrients can reduce the plant's vigor and compact growth habit.
Flowers
In late spring to early summer, coral bells produce slender, wiry stems topped with clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, coral, or red. These airy blooms are attractive to pollinators like hummingbirds and bees, and can be left to dry for winter interest or cut back after flowering.