Coral Bells Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer'
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer', commonly known as Coral Bells, is a perennial plant that stands out with its colorful foliage and delicate flowering stems. Its leaves are typically rounded, with a lobed and wavy edge, exhibiting a range of colors often in the hues of purple, bronze, or green, sometimes with a metallic sheen. The foliage can be solid or patterned with intricate veins or multi-colored mosaics, which adds to the visual interest of this garden favorite. Rising above the mounding foliage on slender stems are the dainty flowers. These small, bell-shaped blossoms are usually arranged in loose, airy panicles. The flowers can come in varying shades, from whites and pinks to reds and corals. The combination of the vibrant foliage and the subtle flowers makes Coral Bells a popular choice for adding a splash of long-lasting color to gardens and flower arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot
Common names
Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer'.
ToxicityTo humans
Coral Bells are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant should not cause poisoning or serious symptoms. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could result in mild irritation or an allergic reaction.
To pets
Coral Bells are also generally recognized as safe for pets. They are not known to be toxic to cats, dogs, or other domestic animals. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not lead to poisoning or severe adverse health effects in pets. However, pets with specific sensitivities may still experience mild gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Mixed
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- Sustains Biodiversity: Provides habitat and food for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Ornamental Value: Adds visual interest to gardens with its colorful foliage and dainty flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires less watering compared to many other plants.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care regarding fertilization and pruning.
- Pest Resistance: Naturally resistant to many common garden pests.
- Cold Hardy: Can survive in cooler climates, making it suitable for a range of landscapes.
- Shade Tolerance: Thrives in part to full shade, ideal for underplanting beneath tree canopies.
- Soil Versatility: Adapts to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained conditions.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers year-round interest with evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some garden plants, it typically does not spread beyond its intended area.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Enhancement: Due to its brightly colored foliage, Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer', or coral bells, can be used to enhance garden photography, providing a vivid backdrop or focal point in composition.
- Art and Craft Projects: Leaves of the coral bells can be pressed and used in scrapbooking, card making, or other paper crafts for their intricate patterns and color.
- Seasonal Decorations: The foliage can be incorporated into fall decorations and arrangements, adding a splash of color to wreaths, centerpieces, and bouquets.
- Edging Plants in Landscaping: Coral bells are often utilized as edging plants in landscaping designs, creating a contrasting border along paths or garden sections.
- Palette Inspiration for Designers: The variety of colors in the Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer' can serve as a living palette for interior designers seeking inspiration for color schemes.
- Culinary Garnish: While not a common use, the leaves can sometimes be used as a garnish for plates, adding an ornamental touch to gourmet dishes.
- Educational Tool: Gardeners may use coral bells to educate others about plant adaptations and survival strategies, such as their tolerance for different lighting conditions.
- Container Gardening: Coral bells are suitable for container gardening, allowing for the creation of multi-tiered plant arrangements on balconies or patios.
- Literary Reference: Heuchera varieties can be referenced in literature and poetry, symbolizing resilience or a quiet beauty within the garden setting.
- Biological Studies: Coral bells can be observed and used in studies on pollinators and their foraging habits due to their attractive flowers that lure insects such as bees and butterflies.
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- Endurance and Longevity: Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, often symbolizes endurance and longevity due to its hardy nature and ability to thrive in various climates.
- Variety and Diversity: With so many different varieties and a spectrum of colors, Coral Bells can represent the beauty of diversity and the richness of variation.
- New Beginnings: The fresh and diverse foliage of Coral Bells makes it an emblem for new beginnings and fresh starts, perfect for signaling change and renewal.
WaterCoral Bells need consistent moisture, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, typically from spring to fall, aim for about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or manual watering. The easiest method is to use a watering can or hose to directly water the soil at the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. In hotter, dryer periods, you may need to water twice a week, while in cooler or rainy conditions, reduce watering accordingly. Always check the soil moisture level an inch below the surface; if it's dry, it's time to water your Coral Bells.
LightCoral Bells prefer partial shade to full shade, with some morning sun and afternoon shade being ideal. They can tolerate more sun in cooler climates but may need additional protection from harsh afternoon sunlight in warmer areas. A spot under trees that provide dappled sunlight or a north-facing garden that gets indirect light is good for optimizing their growth without causing leaf scorch.
TemperatureCoral Bells are hardy in a wide range of temperatures, typically thriving in USDA zones 4-9. They can tolerate temperatures down to around -25°F and high temperatures up to around 80°F. However, the ideal temperature range for Coral Bells is between 60°F and 70°F, where they will grow most vigorously.
PruningPruning Coral Bells is generally done to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to keep the plant looking tidy. The best time to prune is in early spring or after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Pruning can be done once a year or as needed when you notice unsightly or spent foliage. Use clean, sharp shears to cut back the leaves at the base of the plant, being careful not to damage the crown.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal.
RepottingCoral Bells should be repotted every 3 to 4 years to refresh the soil and prevent the plant from becoming root-bound.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells thrive in average room humidity levels but can tolerate some dry air; misting is not necessary.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Plant Coral Bells in partial shade and mulch to retain moisture.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer', commonly known as Coral Bells, begins with seed germination, which requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Upon sprouting, the seedlings develop a rosette of basal leaves and, given proper conditions, will establish a deep root system. In its first year, the plant focuses on vegetative growth, building a strong foundation for future flowering. In the subsequent years, typically in late spring to early summer, Coral Bells produce tall, slender flower stalks bearing small, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, either by wind or wildlife, to begin a new generation. The plant is a perennial, experiencing a dormant phase in winter, with foliage often dying back before regenerating in the spring to repeat the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Heuchera 'Leuchtkäfer', also known as Coral Bells, is commonly propagated by division, which is best done in spring or autumn. To propagate through division, carefully dig up an established clump and divide it into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one growing point. Each division should then be replanted at the same depth it was growing previously, spaced approximately 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 centimeters) apart to allow for growth and air circulation. It is important to keep the newly planted divisions well-watered, especially during their first growing season, to establish a strong root system.
