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Growth Rate
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– Moderate: Establishes in 1 season, fills in steadily over 1–2 years
– Mature Size: 10–12" tall (foliage), 15–18" tall (with flower spikes), spreads 18–22" |
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Colorful leaves
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Flowering
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Yes |
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Bloom Color
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Disease resistant
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Yes |
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Cold Tolerant
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Yes |
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Heat Tolerant
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Yes |
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Drought Tolerant
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Yes |
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Deer Resistant
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Yes |
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Edible
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No |
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Wildlife Attraction
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– Attracts: Bees, small native pollinators, and occasionally hummingbirds
– Deer & Rabbit Resistance: Generally unpalatable to deer and rabbits |
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Self-pollinating
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Seasonality
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– Foliage Season: Spring through fall; evergreen in mild climates
– Flower Season: Late spring to early summer
– Winter Interest: Leaves may persist through winter if not too cold, especially with mulch protection |
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Ideal For
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– Mass planting in shade gardens
– Foliage contrast in mixed beds
– Containers and borders
– Understory planting
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Leaf Description
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– Color: Deep burgundy to purplish-red tones with occasional silver overlay
– Texture: Gently lobed, ruffled edges with a semi-glossy surface
– Shape: Rounded to heart-shaped, with a slightly serrated margin
– Seasonal Interest: Evergreen to semi-evergreen in mild zones (zones 6–9) |
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Flower Description
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– Color: Soft pink or light coral
– Form: Tiny bell-shaped flowers on wiry stems
– Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
– Arrangement: Airy spikes rising above the foliage, delicate and light-catching |
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Planting Instructions
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– Timing: Plant in early spring or early fall when temperatures are mild
– Soil: Prefers rich, well-draining, humus-rich soil with consistent moisture
– Spacing: Space plants about 12–18 inches apart to allow for mature width
– Depth: Plant at crown level—do not bury the crown as it may rot
– Mulching: Apply a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots, especially in winter |
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Pruning & Maintenance
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– Routine Maintenance: Remove dead or winter-damaged leaves in early spring
– After Blooming: Cut spent flower stalks to redirect energy to foliage
– Rejuvenation: Divide every 3–4 years in spring or fall to maintain vigor |
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Water Needs
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– Frequency: Keep evenly moist during establishment; water deeply weekly afterward
– Soil Moisture: Prefers consistent moisture but dislikes soggy conditions
– Drought Tolerance: Moderate once well established, especially in part shade |
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Light Needs
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– Optimal: Partial shade to filtered sun
– Tolerances: Can handle full sun in cooler climates if kept moist
– Avoid: Harsh, hot afternoon sun in warmer zones (zones 7–9), which may cause leaf scorch |
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Harvesting
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– Ornamental Use: Cut flower stalks for floral arrangements
– Foliage Use: Not typically harvested for decoration, but can be used in short-lived arrangements
– Timing: Harvest flower spikes when 1/3 to 1/2 the bells have opened for longest vase life |
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Fertilizing
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– Schedule: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
– Optional Boost: Liquid fertilizer (diluted) once monthly during active growing season
– Avoid: Over-fertilizing, which can result in leggy growth |
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Pollination
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– Type: Pollinated by insects (mainly bees)
– Reproduction: Heucheras are primarily grown for foliage and are clonal in cultivation—pollination is not needed for performance
– Flower Purpose: Primarily ornamental and nectar source for pollinators |
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Companion Plants
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– Hosta – contrasts nicely with its fine foliage texture
– Tiarella – similar cultural needs and texture harmony
– Ferns – create a lush, woodland feel
– Brunnera – good foliage companion in part shade
– Astilbe – pairs well for flower color and timing
– Pulmonaria – supports a mixed foliage theme in shade gardens |
