Coral Bells Heuchera 'Green Spice'
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Green Spice' is renowned for its vibrant and striking foliage that becomes a centerpiece in any garden space. The leaves of this attractive perennial are heart-shaped with a unique mottling of colors. They exhibit a bold contrast of silver and green, accented with dark veins that run throughout, providing a marbled or frosted look. The intricate patterning on the leaves makes the plant particularly eye-catching. The leaves are attached to slender stems, which arise from a central clump, giving the plant a neat and compact appearance. Several times throughout the growing season, delicate bell-shaped flowers bloom on tall, slender stalks that rise above the foliage. These flowers are often in lovely shades that may range from subtle whites to pale pinks, adding a soft, airy texture to the plant profile. Texture-wise, the leaves of 'Green Spice' have a somewhat leathery feel, contributing both to their visual appeal and their resilience in various weather conditions. The color contrast and intricate veining become more pronounced as the seasons change, with colder weather often enhancing the intensity of the leaf colors. This seasonal dynamism ensures that Heuchera 'Green Spice' remains a source of interest throughout its growing period, making it a favored choice for gardeners looking to add lasting visual impact to their landscapes. Overall, the plant's combination of unique coloring, textural leaves, and delicate blooms make it a distinctive and desirable addition to gardens.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot
Common names
Heuchera americana 'Green Spice'
ToxicityTo humans
Coral Bells are not known to be toxic to humans. Ingesting them is not likely to cause poisoning or severe reactions. However, as with any non-food plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people might experience mild stomach upset or discomfort if large quantities are consumed.
To pets
Coral Bells are not known to be toxic to pets. They are considered non-toxic to dogs, cats, and other animals. There should not be any symptoms of poisoning in pets that ingest this plant. However, as with humans, individual animals could have sensitivities or mild reactions to eating non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1.5 feet [45 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: Heuchera 'Green Spice' offers striking foliage with variegated leaves in shades of green, silver, and burgundy, which can add visual interest to a garden throughout the growing season.
- Shade tolerance: This plant thrives in shaded areas where many other plants struggle, making it a great choice for filling in dark spots in the landscape.
- Drought resistance: Once established, Heuchera 'Green Spice' is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Seasonal interest: With its colorful leaves, Heuchera 'Green Spice' provides year-round interest, even when not in bloom, and the foliage may change color as the temperatures drop in the fall.
- Compact size: Its compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for borders, groundcover, or container gardens without overwhelming the space.
- Low maintenance: Heuchera 'Green Spice' requires minimal care beyond occasional watering and removing spent foliage, making it an easy plant for gardeners of all levels.
- Attracts pollinators: When in bloom, the small, delicate flowers of Heuchera 'Green Spice' can attract butterflies and other pollinating insects, benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Deer and rabbit resistance: The plant is generally resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, which can be particularly beneficial in rural or semi-rural gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Accent in floral arrangements: Heuchera 'Green Spice' can add texture and a unique foliage contrast in cut flower arrangements.
- Photography backdrop: Its variegated leaves can serve as an interesting and natural backdrop for macro photography.
- Educational tool: Heuchera 'Green Spice' can be used in botanical studies to teach about leaf variegation and hybrid plant development.
- Leaf casting: Create concrete or plaster casts of the textured leaves to make decorative stepping stones or garden ornaments.
- Pressed leaf art: Leaves from Heuchera 'Green Spice' can be pressed and used in creating botanical prints or greeting cards.
- Natural dye source: Although not commonly used for dyeing, the leaves could potentially be boiled to extract natural colors for fabric or paper dyeing.
- Terrariums: They can be used in terrariums as their compact size and colorful leaves make them an ideal choice for small scale gardening.
- Journaling: Pressed leaves can be incorporated into personal journals or planners for a touch of nature and creativity.
- Seasonal decoration: The foliage can be used in fall displays along with pumpkins and gourds due to its autumnal color palette.
- Table setting accents: Leaves can be placed under clear plates or used as part of a natural table centerpiece for eco-themed events.
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 Beauty: The Heuchera 'Green Spice', also known as Coral Bells, features attractive foliage that maintains its visual appeal across seasons, symbolizing lasting beauty and consistency.
- Diversity and Variety: With its varied leaf patterns and colors, Coral Bells represent the beauty of diversity and the rich tapestry of life's different experiences.
- Balanced Energy: The plant's ability to thrive in both sun and shade reflects a symbol of balance and adaptability, reminding us to embrace a harmonious approach to life.
- Femininity and Delicateness: The delicate flowers of Coral Bells can symbolize gentleness and the subtle strength of femininity, celebrating the soft but powerful influence of women.
- New Beginnings: As Coral Bells are perennials that come back each year, they often represent rebirth and new beginnings, encouraging us to welcome each new chapter in our lives.
WaterCoral Bells require consistent moisture, so it's essential to provide them with water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this could mean watering once a week, but the frequency can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. When watering Coral Bells, it's best to provide a deep watering, which encourages roots to grow deeply, making the plant more drought-resistant over time. Aim to provide one to one and a half gallons of water per plant for each watering session, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot.
LightCoral Bells thrive in a location that offers partial shade or filtered sunlight, making them suitable for a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. These conditions mimic their natural woodland habitat and prevent the leaves from scorching. However, Coral Bells can tolerate more sun in cooler climates as long as they are kept moist, but in hotter regions, more shade will be necessary to protect the foliage.
TemperatureCoral Bells perform best in a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F, which are considered ideal conditions for growth. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but should be protected from frost to prevent damage to foliage and roots. Maximum temperatures should not exceed 80°F for extended periods as high heat can stress the plants, especially if they are in full sun.
PruningPrune Coral Bells to remove any damaged or discolored leaves and to shape the plant, usually in spring or early summer. Deadheading the flower stalks once blooms have faded can also encourage more blooms. Pruning is needed annually; it helps promote healthy growth and a neat appearance. The best time for a thorough pruning is in the spring, as new growth is starting to show.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells require well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. A mix containing equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal to provide the necessary drainage and aeration.
RepottingCoral Bells typically need to be repotted every 2-3 years as they do not appreciate being overcrowded and may require division to maintain their health and vigor.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to a range of conditions as long as they are not in extremely dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells in a bright area avoiding direct sunlight with ample airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, ensure well-draining soil, and avoid wet winters.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleHeuchera 'Green Spice', commonly known as Coral Bells, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in spring or early summer, requiring a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Once the seedlings emerge and establish, they form a basal rosette of leaves that are evergreen or semi-evergreen in nature. As the plant matures, it develops a short rhizome and starts to produce clumps of ornamental foliage with a distinctive green color marked by silver and burgundy tones. In late spring to early summer, Coral Bells send up slender flower stalks with small bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators and may lead to seed formation if not deadheaded. After flowering, the energy is directed back to the foliage, which maintains its vibrancy throughout the growing season into fall. With proper care, Coral Bells can live several years, gradually expanding in size and potentially requiring division every 3 to 5 years to rejuvenate and propagate the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Heuchera 'Green Spice', commonly known as Coral Bells, is a perennial plant that is often propagated during spring or early summer to give it a full growing season to establish. The most popular method of propagation is by division. To propagate Coral Bells by division, carefully dig up an established clump in the spring when new growth begins to appear. Gently pull apart the crowns to separate individual plants, making sure that each division has a portion of the root system attached. Replant the divisions immediately in well-prepared soil at the same depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart to allow for mature size. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots and help reduce transplant stress. Mulch around the new plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds as the divisions establish.
