Coral Bells Heuchera 'Obsidian' (PBR)
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Obsidian' is a striking perennial commonly known as Coral Bells appreciated for its stunning foliage and decorative appeal in gardens. The name 'Obsidian' is reminiscent of volcanic glass, and this plant lives up to its name with its glossy, deep purple to almost black leaves that maintain their color intensity throughout the growing season. The leaves of Coral Bells are rounded, exhibiting a subtle scalloped edge which contributes to their ornamental quality. They have a smooth texture and a robust appearance, and are densely packed to form a mounding habit that looks plush and full. While the foliage is the main attraction, Coral Bells also produces delicate, slender stems that bear small bell-shaped flowers, which are typically lighter in color, providing a lovely contrast against the dark leaves. These blossoms are a favorite of hummingbirds and other pollinators, adding a layer of dynamic interest to the plant's overall display. Throughout the year, but particularly in the growing season, Coral Bells 'Obsidian' presents as a rich, vibrant addition to any garden with its unique coloration and attractive form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Obsidian Coral Bells, Black Coral Bells, Obsidian Alumroot.
Common names
Heuchera 'Obsidian'
ToxicityTo humans
The Coral Bells are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that Heuchera 'Obsidian' poses any significant risk of poisoning when touched or ingested. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur so it's best to handle plants with care if you're unsure of your personal reactions.
To pets
The Coral Bells are not known to be toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. There are no significant reports or documented cases of poisoning in pets after ingesting Heuchera 'Obsidian'. It is always advisable to monitor pets to prevent them from consuming large quantities of any non-food plants, as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or other non-toxic reactions due to the novelty of the plant material in their diet.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
Cream
Height
1 foot 10 inches (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot 8 inches (50 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Heuchera 'Obsidian' offers year-round deep purple to almost black leaves that add dramatic color contrast to garden beds and containers.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Coral Bells are known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care beyond occasional watering and deadheading.
- Drought Tolerance: It is drought-tolerant, making it a practical choice for water-wise gardens and for gardeners looking for resilient landscaping plants.
- Shade Tolerance: It thrives in partial shade, providing a valuable option for underplanting in woodland settings or brightening up shaded areas where other plants may struggle.
- Pest Resistance: The plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, meaning fewer chemical interventions are required for its upkeep.
- Long Blooming: Coral Bells produce delicate flowers that bloom in the late spring to summer, providing a long-lasting display of color above the foliage.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms can attract butterflies and hummingbirds, thereby supporting local wildlife and pollinator populations.
- Non-Invasive: The plant is not known to be invasive, making it a responsible choice for gardeners who want to avoid the accidental spread of aggressive species.
- Versatile: It works well in mixed perennial borders, as groundcover, in rock gardens, and in container plantings, providing versatility in landscaping design.
- Hardiness: Heuchera 'Obsidian' is hardy in a variety of climates, usually tolerant of winter temperatures in USDA zones 4 through 9.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic subject: The Heuchera 'Obsidian', with its striking dark foliage, makes an excellent subject for botanical photography, showcasing the texture and color in various lighting conditions.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists can use the dark leaves of the Heuchera 'Obsidian' as a study in contrasts when painting or drawing garden scenes or still lifes.
- Education: This cultivar can be used in educational programs to teach about plant breeding, hybridization, and the development of new plant varieties.
- Eco-friendly packaging: Dried Heuchera 'Obsidian' leaves can be used in creating natural and biodegradable packaging materials as padding or decorative elements.
- Jewelry making: The unique leaves of the Heuchera 'Obsidian' can be dipped in a preservative and used to create unique and natural pieces of jewelry.
- Fashion design: The plant's aesthetic can inspire prints and patterns in the fabric design process, leading to nature-inspired clothing collections.
- Calligraphy and printing: The dark, almost black leaves can be used as a natural backdrop for white or metallic ink calligraphy, or for setting off printed invitations or greeting cards.
- Culinary garnish: Although not a common practice, the non-toxic leaves of the Heuchera 'Obsidian' could be used as an ornamental garnish for specialty dishes, adding a dramatic flair.
- Colorant: The dark pigment of the leaves potentially could be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or art projects, though it’s not a typical use.
- Companion planting: As a visually arresting plant, Heuchera 'Obsidian' can be used in gardens to highlight lighter-colored plants or to provide a backdrop that makes surrounding colors pop.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiCoral Bells is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCoral Bells is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery and Elegance: 'Obsidian' Heuchera features deep, dark, almost black foliage which evokes a sense of mystery and sophistication, making it symbolize elegance.
- Strength and Durability: Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, is a hardy perennial, symbolizing strength and the ability to endure challenging conditions.
- Contrast and Versatility: The intense color of 'Obsidian' Coral Bells stands out dramatically against lighter plants, representing contrast in life and the versatility to stand out in diverse situations.
- Enduring Beauty: With its year-round attractive leaves, 'Obsidian' Coral Bells symbolize a lasting beauty that endures regardless of the seasons or circumstances.
WaterCoral Bells should be watered regularly to maintain a consistently moist soil, without becoming waterlogged. Typically, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water should suffice, but this may need to increase to twice a week during extremely hot or dry periods. Make sure to water the plant at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage, to reduce the risk of disease. During the winter, reduce watering as the plant's growth slows down, but do not allow the soil to completely dry out.
LightCoral Bells prefer to be located in a spot with partial shade but can tolerate some morning sun. They should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hot climates, to prevent leaf scorch. Dappled sunlight under open trees or an eastern exposure with a few hours of morning sun and afternoon shade would be the ideal location.
TemperatureCoral Bells thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F, which are typical in most temperate climates. They are generally hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as 0°F to -30°F and as high as 80°F, though prolonged extreme temperatures can stress the plants. The ideal growing condition is moderate temperature with sufficient moisture and shade.
PruningCoral Bells should be pruned to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to encourage a tidy growth habit. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth starts, or in the autumn after the plant has finished flowering. Occasionally, Coral Bells may benefit from being divided every 3 to 4 years, which also provides an opportunity for light pruning and maintenance of the clumps.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells prefer well-draining soil with a mix of perlite, peat moss, and compost to promote aeration and moisture retention. The ideal soil pH for Heuchera 'Obsidian' is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingCoral Bells should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for growing roots. Spring is the best time to repot these plants.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells thrive in average household humidity levels but can tolerate a range from 40% to 70%. They do not require extremely high humidity to flourish.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells in bright, indirect light and ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and well-draining soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Heuchera 'Obsidian', commonly known as Coral Bells 'Obsidian', begins its life as a seed which, when sown and exposed to the right conditions of moisture and temperature, germinates into a seedling. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a rosette of characteristic dark, purplish-black leaves. It matures into a fully-grown clump-forming perennial with a robust root system. During the spring and summer, it produces delicate bell-shaped flowers on tall, slender stems that attract pollinators. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. If the conditions are not conducive to seed production or germination, Coral Bells 'Obsidian' can also propagate vegetatively through division of its clumps, thus ensuring its survival and spreading in the garden.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Heuchera 'Obsidian', also commonly known as Coral Bells, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time to propagate Coral Bells by division is in spring or fall when the plant is not in its active growing phase. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established clump of Heuchera 'Obsidian' and gently tease apart the crowns, ensuring that each division has several shoots and a portion of the root system attached. These divisions can then be replanted immediately in well-draining soil, ideally spaced about 16 to 18 inches (approximately 40 to 46 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. It's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as the new plants establish themselves over the next several weeks.
