Coral Bells Heuchera 'Paprika' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Heuchera 'Paprika' is commonly known as Coral Bells. This attractive perennial is admired for its vibrant and colorful foliage which provides year-round interest in gardens. The 'Paprika' variety, as its name suggests, showcases leaves with a warm, spicy coloration that could range from reddish-orange to bronzy-red with undertones reminiscent of the spice after which it's named. The leaves are rounded, with a lobed and somewhat ruffled edge, giving them a unique and textured appearance. Throughout the growing seasons, the colors of the leaves may change, adding dynamic visual interest. During the blooming period, Coral Bells produce delicate flower stalks which rise above the foliage, bearing small and bell-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, or red. These airy blooms can add a contrasting height element to the plant's mounded, low-growing foliage. The flowers are often visited by hummingbirds and butterflies, making this plant not only a visual delight, but also beneficial for attracting wildlife. Overall, Heuchera 'Paprika' presents a spicy visual addition to any garden, with its brightly colored foliage and delicate flowering stems, offering a lasting appeal from spring through fall.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot.
Common names
Heuchera 'Paprika'
ToxicityTo humans
Coral Bells, which Heuchera 'Paprika' is commonly known as, are generally not toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence suggesting that touching or ingesting parts of the Coral Bells plant causes poisoning or adverse health effects in humans.
To pets
Coral Bells are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. While ingestion might cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the novelty for the animal's digestive system, it is not known for causing serious poisoning or fatal consequences. However, as with any non-food plant, it's prudent to discourage pets from eating Coral Bells to avoid potential stomach upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
Varies
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 'Paprika' adds vibrant color and texture to gardens with its richly hued foliage.
- Long-Lasting Color: The foliage provides a splash of color throughout the growing season, not just when in bloom.
- Low Maintenance: This perennial is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Heuchera 'Paprika' can tolerate periods of dryness, making it suitable for water-wise gardens.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: It is generally resistant to common garden pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Suitable for a variety of garden designs, including borders, containers, and rock gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers can attract butterflies and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Seasonal Interest: Adds interest throughout the seasons with changing leaf colors and attractive flower panicles in the spring or early summer.
- Soil Adaptability: Heuchera 'Paprika' can thrive in a range of soil conditions, from clay to sandy soils.
- Shade Tolerance: It can grow well in both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to various garden locations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural fabric dye: The leaves of Coral Bells, when boiled, can impart subtle hues to fabrics, giving a natural dyeing option for textile enthusiasts.
- In crafting and scrapbooking: Pressed leaves of Coral Bells can be used in scrapbooking or card making for their distinctive leaf shapes and veining patterns.
- Garden photography: With its vibrant foliage, Coral Bells serves as an excellent subject for garden photographers looking to capture the beauty of foliage plants.
- Educational tool: Coral Bells can be used in schools or educational programs to teach students about plant growth, photosynthesis, and botany due to its easy care and visible physiological features.
- As a living mulch: Its dense foliage can act as a living mulch, suppressing weeds and maintaining soil moisture in garden beds.
- Culinary garnish: Although not traditionally used for cooking, the fresh leaves can add an ornamental touch as a garnish for plating dishes in gourmet cuisine.
- Therapeutic horticulture: Coral Bells can be incorporated into therapeutic gardening programs for its ease of maintenance and aesthetic appeal, benefiting individuals by reducing stress.
- In terrariums: Due to its compact size, Coral Bells can be successfully grown in terrariums, adding a touch of nature to indoor spaces.
- As a natural confetti: Dried leaves and flower petals can be used as biodegradable confetti for eco-friendly celebrations.
- Art supplies: The varied leaf colors and shapes of Coral Bells offer a natural palette for artists, who may use them for imprinting patterns in paintings or mixed media art.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Coral Bells is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Coral Bells is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Grace: Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, symbolizes enduring grace due to its delicate bell-shaped flowers and its ability to withstand various growing conditions, resonating with the idea of elegance and resilience.
- Variety and Versatility: With its variety of colors and Paprika cultivar's vibrant hue, Coral Bells represent the diversity and adaptability in life, reminding us of the richness that comes with change and flexibility.
- Balanced Energy: The plant's rounded foliage and symmetrical flower spikes can symbolize balanced energy, reflecting the harmony of natural elements together.
WaterCoral Bells prefer even moisture and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim to water them deeply roughly once a week, providing about 1 inch of water which translates to about 0.6 gallons for a typical garden plant. Adjust the amount based on rainfall and temperature, as they may need more frequent watering in hot, dry weather and less during cool, wet periods. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of disease. Use a drip irrigation system or water at the base of the plant to ensure the roots receive adequate moisture without wetting the leaves.
LightCoral Bells thrive in a location that provides partial to full shade, particularly in the afternoon when the sun is most intense. The best spot would protect them from the harsh midday sun while still offering some morning or dappled sunlight to maintain vibrant foliage color. In cooler climates, they can tolerate more sun, but in hotter areas, more shade is necessary to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureCoral Bells are hardy and can withstand a broad range of temperatures, but they grow best when the temperature is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around -25 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for many temperate regions. The maximum temperature they can tolerate without stress is typically around 85 degrees Fahrenheit; higher temperatures, particularly with direct sun, may lead to leaf scorch or stress.
PruningPruning Coral Bells is primarily done to remove any faded or dead leaves and to tidy up the plant, promoting good air circulation and reducing the risk of disease. Trim off any unsightly or spent leaves throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking neat. The best time for a more thorough pruning is in the spring when new growth begins, which allows the removal of any winter damage and encourages fresh, healthy foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells (Heuchera 'Paprika') thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, preferably with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. A mix containing one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand is ideal for maintaining proper moisture levels and soil structure.
RepottingCoral Bells typically require repotting every 3-4 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It's best to repot in the spring just before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells prefer moderate humidity levels but are relatively adaptable to various indoor humidity conditions as long as the soil moisture is well-regulated and the leaves remain dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, well-draining soil, and protect from hot afternoon sun.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Coral Bells 'Paprika' (Heuchera 'Paprika' (PBR)) begins its life cycle with germination, where the seeds sprout in moist, well-draining soil, typically in spring or early summer. The seedlings develop into juvenile plants with a rosette of colorful, paprika-red leaves close to the ground. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it establishes a strong root system and foliage expands, with leaves maturing to a more muted, greenish hue with red undertones. During the reproductive stage in late spring to summer, it sends up slender flower stalks bearing small, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules, which eventually release seeds, continuing the cycle. Once established, Heuchera 'Paprika' enters a perennial cycle of dormancy in the winter, where growth slows down, and renewed growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Heuchera 'Paprika' is commonly known as Coral Bells and its propagation is often best done by division. The ideal time for this is either in the spring or the fall when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a part of the root system intact. These sections can then be replanted into prepared soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the new divisions thoroughly to establish them. This method not only propagates the plants but also revitalizes older clumps that might have become woody and less vigorous over time.
