Coral Bells Heuchera 'Mahogany' (PBR)
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Mahogany' (PBR), commonly known as Coral Bells, is an ornamental plant known for its distinctive foliage and delicate flowers. The plant features rounded leaves that have a unique and rich mahogany color, which can range from deep burgundy to chocolate brown, often with a smooth and somewhat shiny texture. Each leaf is attached to the plant by a long, slender stalk. The leaves are somewhat ruffled and can have a slightly scalloped or lobed edge, which adds to the overall texture of the foliage. When the light hits the leaves, their glossy surface can create a striking contrast against the mulch or other greenery in a garden setting. In addition to its attractive foliage, Coral Bells produce delicate flower stalks that rise above the leaves. These wiry stems are topped with small bell-shaped flowers that are typically a light, creamy color, though they can sometimes have pinkish or whitish hues. These flowers are arranged in loose, open clusters, and they can add a subtle touch of elegance to the overall appearance of the plant. Coral Bells have a characteristic form with a clumping habit that creates a mounded appearance. This makes them particularly suitable for use in garden borders, as an edging plant, or even in decorative containers. Their foliage remains attractive throughout the seasons, offering enduring visual interest.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot.
Common names
Heuchera 'Mahogany' (PBR)
ToxicityTo humans
Coral Bells, including the Heuchera 'Mahogany', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Therefore, ingesting them is not expected to cause poisoning or toxic symptoms.
To pets
Coral Bells are also generally recognized as non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests parts of the plant, it is not typically expected to result in poisoning or exhibit harmful symptoms. However, eating plants is not a natural behavior for most pets, so it could potentially cause mild stomach upset regardless of toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-evergreen
Color of leaves
Mahogany
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Heuchera 'Mahogany' provides year-round interest with its deep mahogany-red leaves and a mounding habit, enhancing garden aesthetic.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has good resistance to drought, requiring less water and reducing maintenance needs.
- Shade Tolerance: It can thrive in various light conditions, including partial to full shade, providing options for gardeners with less sunny landscapes.
- Cold Hardy: This cultivar is resilient in cold climates, making it suitable for a wide range of geographic locations.
- Soil Versatility: It can adapt to a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-draining soils, making it versatile for different garden settings.
- Long Blooming: Produces delicate bell-shaped flowers that add subtle charm from spring into summer.
- Wildlife Attraction: The blooms can attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Heuchera 'Mahogany' typically requires minimal care once established, with little need for fertilization or pruning.
- Pest Resistance: It is generally resistant to common garden pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Disease Resistance: Exhibits resistance to common foliage diseases, ensuring a healthier plant with less intervention.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting natural dyes: The leaves of Coral Bells can be used to create subtle natural dyes for fabrics, wool, or paper, adding a unique, artisan touch to crafts.
- Icing decoration: The small, delicate flowers of Coral Bells can be candied and used to decorate cakes or desserts, providing an edible and aesthetically pleasing flourish.
- Photography subject: Coral Bells, with their richly colored foliage and dainty flowers, can be an ideal subject for macro photography enthusiasts.
- Garden thematic elements: Coral Bells can be incorporated in fairy gardens or other thematic garden displays due to their enchanting appearance.
- Livestock forage: While not a primary feed, the leaves of Coral Bells can be a part of the forage for some livestock, such as goats, if other preferred forage is scarce.
- Educational tool: Coral Bells can be used in schools or educational programs to teach children about perennial plants, pollinators, and the importance of biodiversity in the garden.
- Leaf casting: The textured leaves of Coral Bells are perfect for creating decorative leaf castings in concrete or plaster to create garden ornaments or pathway stones.
- Floral arrangements: Leaves and flowers of Coral Bells can be cut and added to floral arrangements, providing long-lasting color and texture to bouquets.
- Tracing patterns: The intricate leaf veins can be used by artists as patterns for tracing or inspiration in designs, particularly in printmaking and textiles.
- Ice cube embellishment: Small flowers or leaves can be frozen into ice cubes to add a touch of elegance to cold drinks or punch bowls during garden parties.
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: Heuchera, also known as Coral Bells, is a plant that is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in various conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure challenges and remain resilient.
- Diversity: With its wide variety of colors and forms, Coral Bells represent the beauty of diversity and the richness that different perspectives bring to life.
- Allegiance: The long-lasting nature of Heuchera's foliage through the seasons can be seen as a symbol of steadfastness and unwavering loyalty.
WaterCoral Bells should be watered regularly, aiming for about 1 inch of water per week, either through rainfall or supplemental watering. Ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot. During the growing season in spring and summer, you may need to water a few times a week, especially if the weather is particularly dry or hot. Cut back on watering in the fall and water sparingly in winter, as the plant requires less moisture during its dormant period.
LightCoral Bells thrive in conditions where they can receive partial to full shade. The ideal spot for Heuchera 'Mahogany' would be an area that provides some morning sun with afternoon shade or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing them in full sun, as too much direct sunlight can damage the foliage and affect the vibrant color of the leaves.
TemperatureCoral Bells are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, however, they prefer a climate where the temperatures stay between 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from severe cold. In hotter regions, it is essential to ensure they are not exposed to extreme heat above 80 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods.
PruningCoral Bells should be pruned to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to promote a more compact, healthy growth habit. The best time for pruning is in the spring, just as new growth begins. Prune sparingly, as too much can stress the plant. Ensure cleanliness of your pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells thrive in well-draining soil with a mix of one-third peat, one-third garden loam, and one-third perlite or coarse sand. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingCoral Bells generally do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 3 to 4 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells prefer moderate humidity levels but can adapt to the typical humidity found in most homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in part-shade, amend soil for drainage, and mulch.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Heuchera 'Mahogany', commonly known as Coral Bells, begins with seed germination, which occurs when conditions are moist and warm. After germination, the seedling stage follows, where the young plant establishes a root system and foliage begins to develop. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant matures and produces characteristic maple-like leaves that form a basal rosette. The Coral Bells then enter the flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, sending up slender stalks topped with small, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, seeds are produced and dispersed, leading to a new generation if conditions allow. Lastly, the plant may enter a period of dormancy during the winter months, particularly in colder climates, before re-emerging in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Heuchera 'Mahogany', commonly known as Coral Bells, is often propagated by division, which is the most popular method for propagating this plant. Division should ideally be done in the spring or early fall, which are the times when the plant is not in active bloom and can recover from the shock of being divided. To propagate by division, the gardener should gently lift the plant from the soil, making sure to keep a good amount of roots attached to each section. The clumps can be divided into smaller pieces, each with several shoots and a portion of the root system. The divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at previously and watered thoroughly. This method allows for the quick establishment of new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. It's important to provide adequate water and to avoid full sun immediately after division to reduce stress on the new plants.
