Coral Bells

Many species in the Heuchera genus are commonly called "coral bells," including hundreds of varieties and hybrids. New coral bells are introduced every year, making it a perennial foliage plant. The plants are native to North America and form round mounds with a woody rootstock or crown and small bell-shaped flowers that bloom in spring or early summer. The nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies and make excellent cut flowers. Depending on the climate, their leaves are rounded, lobed, hairy, and evergreen or semi-evergreen. As well as traditional green-leaved coral bells, newer varieties have leaves in purple, rose, lime green, gold, and more colors.

They are best planted in late fall or early spring and grow moderately, making them an excellent choice for woodlands, rock gardens, containers, borders, and ground covers. Although they are perennials, they are short-lived; are not divided regularly, they will die out.