Coral Bells Heuchera 'Blackbird'

Water

Coral Bells should be watered deeply and thoroughly to encourage root growth, supplying approximately one inch of water weekly. During hot, dry periods this may mean watering twice a week, whereas in cooler or wetter conditions less frequent watering may be required. Check the top inch of soil for dryness as a guide for when to water. It is important to avoid overwatering, as Coral Bells do not like to be in waterlogged soil. Generally, providing one gallon of water per week per plant will suffice, but always adjust according to the plant's needs and local weather conditions.

Light

Coral Bells thrive best in partial shade to full shade conditions. They can tolerate morning sun but should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. A spot that receives filtered sunlight or dappled shade, possibly under the canopy of taller plants or trees, is ideal for maintaining their vibrant foliage color and ensuring their overall health.

Temperature

Coral Bells are hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures, generally preferring conditions between 50°F and 85°F for optimal growth. They can survive temperatures as low as -25°F and as high as 90°F, but sustained extremes outside of their comfort zone may stress the plants. Always ensure there is adequate mulch to insulate the roots from extreme cold or heat.

Pruning

Pruning Coral Bells involves removing any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth. They should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Deadheading, or removing spent flower stems, can also be done to encourage more blooms. Pruning is not often needed, but when performed, it can rejuvenate an overgrown plant and improve air circulation.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Coral Bells thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. To create the best soil mix, combine equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand to improve aeration and drainage.

Repotting

Coral Bells should be repotted every 3 to 4 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in the spring as new growth begins.

Humidity & Misting

Coral Bells prefer average to high humidity levels but are quite adaptable. A humidity level between 40% and 50% is optimal for healthy growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade, fertile soil, avoid water-logged areas.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Heuchera 'Blackbird', commonly known as Coral Bells, begins its life as a seed that germinates in moist soil conditions with partial to full shade. After seed germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a rosette of ruffled, deep purple to almost black foliage, over many weeks to months, depending on conditions. During its growing season, typically in late spring to early summer, it starts to produce tall, slender stalks above the foliage, topped with small bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, these flowers may produce small capsules containing seeds, completing their reproductive cycle. Coral Bells are perennials, which means once established, they will continue to grow and can be divided every few years to maintain vigour and spread to new areas of the garden. Over its lifetime, which can span several years, the plant will experience seasonal cycles of growth, flowering, and dormancy, especially in regions with colder winters.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Heuchera 'Blackbird', commonly known as Coral Bells, is often propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. The best time to propagate Heuchera 'Blackbird' through division is in spring or early fall. To do this, carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a significant amount of the root system intact. You can divide the plant by gently teasing apart the crowns with your hands or by using a sharp knife to cut through the crown and roots, ensuring each division has at least one growth point or bud. Once divided, replant the sections immediately at the same soil depth they were previously, and water them well to help establish the new divisions. These divisions will grow and mature into separate plants, identical to the parent. This method is straightforward and ensures that the garden maintains its design by clumping and spreading Coral Bells effectively.