Coral Bells Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' (Fox Series)
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' (Fox Series), commonly known as Coral Bells, is a visually captivating perennial plant distinguished by its vibrant foliage and delicate blossoms. The leaves of 'Burgundy Bill' boast a rich, sumptuous burgundy color, accented with deeper veins that add texture and depth to the plant's appearance. Each leaf is rounded with slight lobing at the margins, resembling a softly scalloped edge that adds a whimsical touch to the foliage. During the blooming period, Coral Bells produce slender, upright stems that rise above the elegant mound of foliage. Atop these stems are small, bell-like flowers that tend to be cream or light pink in color, providing a lovely contrast against the bold burgundy leaves. The flowers are arranged in loose panicles, and their gentle nodding habit creates a sense of graceful movement, enhancing the overall allure of the plant. As the seasons change, the foliage may transform in color, adding a dynamic aspect to this plant's presence in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot.
Common names
Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' (Fox Series)
ToxicityTo humans
Coral Bells, which includes the variety 'Burgundy Bill', are generally not considered to be toxic to humans. They are often grown for their attractive foliage and are suitable for inclusion in areas where children and pets may play due to their non-toxic nature. Ingesting any part of the plant is unlikely to cause serious harm or symptoms of poisoning in humans. However, like with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities can cause mild reactions in some people.
To pets
Coral Bells, such as 'Burgundy Bill', are also recognized as being non-toxic to pets. Both dogs and cats can be around this plant without a significant risk of poisoning. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not lead to any serious health consequences for pets. That said, consumption of plant matter can sometimes result in gastrointestinal upset for animals, such as vomiting or diarrhea, mainly due to the ingestion of non-typical food items rather than specific toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Burgundy
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds striking color to gardens with its vibrant burgundy foliage.
- Long-lasting Interest: Maintains visual interest throughout multiple seasons with evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for many gardeners.
- Attracts Pollinators: Blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for borders, groundcover, or container planting, offering garden design flexibility.
- Shade Tolerance: Thrives in a variety of light conditions, including shaded areas where other plants might struggle.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, demonstrates a degree of drought resistance, conserving water.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Typically avoided by deer and rabbits, reducing the need for protective measures.
- Non-Invasive: Unlikely to spread aggressively, making it easier to manage in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: With its striking burgundy foliage, Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' can be used as a colorful backdrop or feature in plant photography setups.
- Pressing and Crafting: Leaves from the Heuchera can be pressed and used in crafting, such as in homemade greeting cards, bookmarks, or framed botanical art.
- Theme Gardens: The plant can be incorporated into a Gothic theme garden where darker foliage is desired to create a mystical, moody ambiance.
- Contrast in Floral Arrangements: The dark leaves can be used as a contrast to bright flowers in fresh or dried floral arrangements.
- Educational Samples: The plant can be used in botany classes or workshops to study leaf morphology and plant habit differences.
- Fairy and Miniature Gardens: The compact size of Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' makes it suitable for use in fairy and miniature gardens as foliage or as miniature 'trees'.
- Seasonal Decor: The leaves can be incorporated into autumnal wreaths or table decorations due to their seasonal color palette.
- Color Studies: Artists and designers may use the plant as a live example when studying color contrasts and color palettes in nature.
- Costume Design: Real or imitation leaves of Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' could be used in costume design, especially for fantasy-themed outfits that require natural elements.
- Space Definition: In a small patio garden, it can be used to define spaces or create a sense of enclosure due to its mounding habit.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coral Bells is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coral Bells is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Grace: The Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, often symbolizes the enduring grace of nature, with its ability to provide colorful foliage throughout the varying seasons.
- Lasting Beauty: Coral Bells offer a range of colors and a perennial lifespan which stands for lasting beauty and the ability to withstand the test of time in the garden.
- Versatility: Known for being adaptable to different light conditions and soil types, Coral Bells represent versatility and the capacity to thrive in various circumstances.
- New Beginnings: As a plant that can grow in shady areas, Coral Bells are seen as a sign of new beginnings, symbolizing growth and hope in less than ideal conditions.
WaterCoral Bells, including the variety Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill', prefer to be watered regularly to maintain consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. They should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could mean once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. Avoid getting water on the foliage to prevent fungal diseases, and instead water at the base of the plant. A good approach is to provide Coral Bells with approximately one gallon of water per plant for each watering session, adjusting for rainfall and temperatures.
LightCoral Bells thrive best in partial shade conditions. An optimal spot for Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill' would be one that receives morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled light beneath open-branched trees. They can tolerate more sun in cooler climates but need protection from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in warmer zones.
TemperatureCoral Bells are hardy plants that can withstand a wide range of temperatures but perform best when the temperature remains between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive temperatures down to around 0 degrees Fahrenheit and up to approximately 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but the foliage may suffer in extremes. Providing mulch can help to moderate soil temperature and protect the roots in both cold winters and hot summers.
PruningCoral Bells require minimal pruning to remove any damaged or dead foliage and to promote a tidy appearance. This can be done in early spring or late fall. Deadheading the spent flower stalks after blooming can encourage additional flowers. Pruning is not typically required for the foliage unless there is diseased or dead leaves, which should be cut back to the base of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Coral Bells prefer well-draining soil with a mix of peat, compost, and perlite. Keep the soil pH slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingCoral Bells should be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their container to maintain healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells thrive best in average room humidity levels, avoiding overly dry or highly humid environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells in bright, indirect light and rotate regularly for even growth.
Outdoor
Plant Coral Bells in partial shade and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Coral Bells 'Burgundy Bill' begin their life cycle when seeds are sown or propagated vegetatively via division. Upon germination, the seedlings develop into rosettes of leaves and establish a strong root system. As the plant matures, it produces characteristic lobed, rounded leaves with a rich burgundy color. Throughout spring and summer, tall flower stalks emerge, adorned with small, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. After blooming, seeds are set and can be dispersed for reproduction, although many cultivars are often propagated vegetatively for consistency. As a perennial, Coral Bells 'Burgundy Bill' will die back during the winter in colder climates, only to regrow from the rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Heuchera 'Burgundy Bill', also known by its common name Coral Bells, is often propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this perennial. The best time to propagate Coral Bells by division is in spring or early fall when the plant is not in full bloom, which allows the plant to establish itself during moderate temperatures. To divide Coral Bells, carefully dig around the plant and lift it out of the ground, ensuring as much of the root system is intact as possible. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has several growth points or leaves and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth, and water them thoroughly to help establish the new plants.
