Coral Bells Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil'
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil', commonly known as Coral Bells, is a striking ornamental plant noted for its rich, chocolate to burgundy foliage. Each leaf is rounded, exhibiting a distinctively lobed edge and a delicate, crinkled texture that gives it a somewhat ruffled appearance. The surface of the leaves often has a shimmering silver overlay, which highlights the deep undertones and emphasizes the veins, creating a veined pattern that can be quite intricate. During the blooming season, Coral Bells produces slender, upright stems that tower above the low mound of foliage. Atop these stems, tiny bell-shaped flowers bloom in clusters. These flowers are usually white to pale pink, creating a delicate contrast against the dark foliage. The blooms are a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies, adding an extra dimension of life to the plant's display. The overall aesthetic of Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil' is one of sophisticated contrast – the rich darkness of the leaves sets the stage for the light, airy flowers that dance above. As a durable and versatile plant, it serves as an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance and drama to garden beds, borders, or as a standout in container plantings. Its evergreen nature ensures that it remains an attractive feature throughout the year, with the intensity of the leaf color potentially deepening in response to cooler temperatures.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot.
Common names
Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil'.
ToxicityTo humans
Coral bells, which include the variety 'Chocolate Veil', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects expected if any part of the plant is accidentally ingested.
To pets
Coral bells, the common name for Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil', are not known to be toxic to pets. They are generally regarded as safe for dogs, cats, and other animals, and there should be no symptoms of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil' has rich, chocolate-brown leaves that add unique color contrast to garden spaces.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Tolerant of Different Light Conditions: It can thrive in full sun to part shade, providing flexibility in garden design.
- Drought Resistant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Long-Lived Perennial: Being a perennial, it can provide beauty for several years.
- Seasonal Interest: Delicate bell-shaped flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, offering a seasonal display.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies and bees, promoting biodiversity.
- Versatile in Landscaping: Suitable for borders, ground covers, or container gardening.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Its foliage is not palatable to deer and rabbits, reducing the risk of damage.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some other plants, it tends to stay where it's planted and does not aggressively spread.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil', also known as Coral Bells, provides a rich, dark backdrop which is excellent for photographers looking to contrast lighter florals or to create a moody, atmospheric setting.
- Art Inspiration: The unique color and texture of Coral Bells foliage can inspire artists for printmaking, paintings, or even textile designs, offering a subtle yet intriguing pattern.
- Educational Tool: Botany teachers can use Coral Bells to educate students on leaf pigmentation, hybrids, and the diversity of plant foliage in horticulture.
- Theme Gardens: The dark foliage of Coral Bells can be used in gothic or 'black' themed gardens, which focus on plants with darker tones to create a unique aesthetic.
- Fairy Gardens: Its compact size and ornamental leaves make Coral Bells an attractive choice for whimsical fairy gardens, adding a splash of dark color to miniature landscapes.
- Container Combinations: Gardeners can use Coral Bells in container gardens paired with contrasting bright flowers or silvery foliage to create eye-catching combinations on patios or balconies.
- Culinary Presentation: Although not for consumption, Coral Bells can be used as a garnish on plates for upscale culinary presentations, contributing a dramatic flair.
- Jewelry Making: Pressed leaves of Coral Bells can be embedded in resin to make unique, botanical jewelry items such as pendants or earrings.
- Seasonal Displays: Coral Bells can be integrated into autumnal displays due to their rich color, complementing pumpkins and fall foliage for decorative purposes.
- Landscape Photography: The plant can add visual interest and depth to landscape photographs, especially in gardens or naturalized areas where its color contrasts the green environment.
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- Eternal Beauty: The evergreen nature of Coral Bells, as the plant is commonly known, symbolizes constant and enduring beauty.
- Versatility: Coral Bells are known for their adaptability in various garden environments, representing flexibility and the ability to thrive in differing situations.
- Attraction: With its rich, chocolate-colored foliage, Coral Bells signify allure and seduction, drawing in both the eye and spirit.
- Protection: Coral Bells have been used in folklore to ward off negative energies, symbolizing safety and a protective barrier.
WaterCoral bells require consistent moisture, but they do not like to be waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately once or twice a week depending on climate conditions. It's crucial to avoid shallow watering; instead, water deeply to encourage strong root growth. Providing about one gallon of water per plant each time should suffice. During winter months, reduce the frequency of watering since the plant will be dormant and its water needs will decrease.
LightCoral bells thrive in conditions with partial shade to full shade, making them ideal for spots that are shielded from the harsh afternoon sun. An eastern exposure that offers morning light and afternoon shade or a location under a canopy of tall trees would be perfect. However, they can tolerate more sun in cooler climates, as long as they are kept moist.
TemperatureCoral bells are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, growing best between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer conditions up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, temperatures consistently outside of this range can stress the plant, and providing mulch can help to moderate temperature extremes.
PruningCoral bells should be pruned to remove any tattered or weather-damaged leaves and to encourage a more compact, bushy growth habit. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth begins or any time during the growing season when the foliage looks in need of tidying up. Deadheading the flower stalks after they have finished blooming can also promote more foliage growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Coral Bells (Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil') is one that is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). A mixture of loam, peat moss, and perlite can provide the ideal conditions for healthy growth.
RepottingCoral Bells (Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil') typically require repotting every 2-3 years. The best time to repot is in the spring when the plant shows signs of outgrowing its current container or when the soil has degraded.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells (Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil') thrive in moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to different humidity conditions as long as they are not in an excessively dry environment. Aim for humidity levels around 50%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Choose a spot with partial shade for Coral Bells outdoors.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Coral Bells 'Chocolate Veil' begins its life as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil, ideally in partial to full shade. After sprouting, the seedling slowly develops into a mature plant with a clumping habit, featuring evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage that has a rich, chocolate-brown color. During spring and early summer, the plant sends up slender stems topped with bell-shaped flowers, which attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, if pollinated, the plant may set seed, which can be collected for propagation or allowed to self-sow in suitable conditions. Throughout the growing season, the Coral Bells 'Chocolate Veil' may be divided and transplanted to encourage more vigorous growth and maintain the desired shape. As a perennial, it will die back during the colder months, although the leaves often persist, and then it will emerge again from the rootstock when conditions become favorable in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Heuchera 'Chocolate Veil', also commonly known as Coral Bells, is through division. This is typically done in spring or fall when the plant is not in its active growing phase. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the whole plant, making sure to keep the root ball intact. Gently separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has a few leaves and a portion of the root system. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at previously, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method of division allows the gardener to create new Coral Bells plants that are genetic clones of the parent, maintaining its unique characteristics.
