Coral Bells Have Familiar Ring

By Jos Van Hage

Coral Bells "Plum Pudding"

An old time perennial that has made a come back with many new varieties is the Coral Bells (Heuchera). This old time favorite was once grown mainly for its flowers but the new varieties are grown more for their foliage than for
their flowers. The scalloped edged maple shaped leaves come in shades of purple, brown, red, coral and some of beautiful markings of red and metallic silvers. The small bell flowers are on long spikes that rise above the
foliage and come in colors of red, white or pink. They make excellent long lasting cut flowers and also attract humming birds.

Two new varieties of Heuchera that are very colorful are the 'Peach Flambee' and 'Sparkling Burgundy'. Sparkling burgundy has very bright burgundy foliage that just shines through out the season.

Considered an evergreen in warmer areas it should keep its color well into the fall. Peach Flambee has peach colored leaves that are inflamed with red infusions making it a stunner in the landscape. Both have white flowers. Some other varieties are 'Palace Purple' which has a deep purple leaf in spring that fades into bronze by fall. 'Stormy Seas' is known for its ruffled leaves that have dark grey speck in them.

Heucheras grow best in a rich well drained soil and need to be kept moist. Do not let them dry out. They enjoy sun to full shade depending on variety. They are not bothered by many insects or disease and are easy to look after.
They can be divided every 3-4 years.

For a longer blooming time, remove the finished flowers so that the plant will produce more new flowers. They make excellent rock garden plants or are good in borders as they do not grow very tall. They also make great container plants but in the fall they need to be either dug into the ground or the container must be placed where the temperatures are just above freezing such as a heated garage.

-Jos

Jos Van Hage owns  and operates two  Art Knapp Garden Centres in Prince George

• Highway 16 West at Kimball Road
• Highway 97 north at Northwood Pulpmill Road
  

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