Coral Bells Heuchera 'Pear Crisp'
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Pear Crisp', also commonly known as Coral Bells, boasts a distinct appearance characterized by its unique foliage and delicate blooms. The leaves of 'Pear Crisp' are particularly noteworthy; they exhibit a ruffled texture that resembles the surface of crinkled satin. The color of the leaves is a soft, pear-green hue, blending a light green with subtle yellow undertones which can create an eye-catching contrast in the garden. The leaves may also have a shimmering, silver overlay that accentuates their crinkled appearance, catching the light and adding dimension to the plant's overall look. In addition to its foliage, the Coral Bells 'Pear Crisp' produces dainty flowers that rise above the foliage on slender, wiry stems. These blossoms are typically small and bell-shaped, nodding gently in the breeze. The flowers are usually a soft shade that might range from creamy white to pale pink, contributing a wispy and ethereal quality to the plant's visual appeal. This variety of Coral Bells is valued for both the textural interest and the nuanced coloring of its leaves, as well as the graceful, understated flowers that complement but do not overshadow the striking foliage. It's a popular choice for gardeners who are looking to add a touch of refinement and subtle beauty to their landscaping. The combination of the ruffled leaves and the elegant blooms creates an overall impression of a plant that is both robust in character and delicate in aesthetics.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot
Common names
Heuchera 'Pear Crisp'
ToxicityTo humans
Heuchera 'Pear Crisp', commonly known as Coral Bells, is not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, ingestion of this plant typically does not result in poisoning or adverse symptoms in people.
To pets
Coral Bells are also not considered toxic to pets. Ingesting this plant should not cause any significant symptoms of poisoning in animals such as dogs or cats. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in large quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant material's fiber content, though this is not common.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 feet 6 inches (46 cm)
Spread
1 feet 6 inches (46 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: The Heuchera 'Pear Crisp' is known for its crinkled, pear-hued leaves that add a unique texture to gardens.
- Long-Lasting Color: Provides year-round interest with evergreen leaves in regions with milder winters.
- Shade Tolerance: Adapts well to low-light conditions, making it ideal for shaded gardens.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy Care: Requires minimal maintenance, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some plants, it does not spread aggressively, so it plays well with others in mixed plantings.
- Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Attracts Pollinators: Blooms attract butterflies and bees, helping to pollinate the garden.
- Versatile Use: Can be used in borders, containers, rock gardens, and as ground cover, providing great versatility.
- Seasonal Interest: Produces delicate bell-shaped flowers that add an extra touch of interest in spring and summer.
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 Heuchera, also known as Coral Bells, can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, giving fabrics a subtle earthy tone.
- Fairy gardens: Due to their compact size and ornamental foliage, Coral Bells are perfect for fairy garden landscapes, providing a lush, magical backdrop.
- Leaf casting: Gardeners can use the beautifully shaped leaves of Coral Bells to create concrete leaf castings, which can be used as unique garden ornaments.
- Educational tool: Coral Bells can be utilized in schools for botany lessons, teaching children about plant life cycles and horticulture practices.
- Landscape design: In addition to their traditional use, the leaves of Coral Bells can provide texture contrast when designing green roofs or living walls.
- Photography: With their richly colored and veined leaves, Coral Bells are ideal subjects for macro and close-up photography, highlighting the intricate patterns of nature.
- Seasonal decoration: The foliage of Coral Bells can be incorporated into fall centerpieces or wreaths, enhancing seasonal decor with their autumnal hues.
- Thermal insulation: When planted en masse, Coral Bells can help to insulate the ground, reducing temperature fluctuations in the root zones of adjacent plants.
- Culinary presentation: While non-toxic, they are not commonly consumed; however, their leaves can be used as decorative garnishes for culinary dishes, adding a splash of color.
- Art inspiration: Artists may utilize Coral Bells as a living muse, painting or drawing their diverse leaf patterns and colorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coral Bells are not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coral Bells are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Beauty: Heuchera 'Pear Crisp', commonly known as Coral Bells, often symbolizes a lasting beauty due to its attractive foliage that remains decorative across the seasons.
- Versatility: The adaptability of Coral Bells, thriving in various conditions, mirrors human flexibility and the ability to endure changing circumstances.
- Bewitching Attraction: The delicate and unique flowers of Coral Bells can symbolize enchantment or charm, often captivating the onlooker with their subtle grace.
- Balancing Energy: With its mounding habit and variety of colors, Coral Bells are sometimes used to represent balance and harmony in a garden space, reflecting these qualities in life.
WaterCoral Bells, including Heuchera 'Pear Crisp', prefer even moisture, so it's important to water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, water these plants once a week with about one inch of water or roughly 0.5 gallons per square foot, adjusting for rainfall and weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, they may require more frequent watering, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Ensure that the soil drainage is effective to avoid waterlogging. It's best to water Coral Bells in the morning to allow the foliage to dry throughout the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases
LightCoral Bells thrive in a location that provides partial to full shade, making them an excellent choice for adding color under a canopy of trees or in a garden spot shielded from the afternoon sun. Heuchera 'Pear Crisp' will appreciate morning light with protection from the harsh midday rays. However, they can tolerate more sun in cooler climates, as long as they receive adequate moisture to prevent the leaves from scorching.
TemperatureCoral Bells are hardy in a wide range of temperatures and can generally survive in USDA zones 4 through 9. They can withstand minimum winter temperatures down to -30°F and are at their best in temperate climates where summer temperatures hover below 90°F. The ideal temperature range for Heuchera 'Pear Crisp' is between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season.
PruningCoral Bells, including Heuchera 'Pear Crisp', need regular pruning to remove any damaged or dead foliage and to encourage fresh growth. Prune them in early spring to clean up winter damage and dead leaves. Additionally, trimming back the spent flower stalks after blooming can stimulate a tidier appearance and may encourage reblooming. Pruning is typically not needed more than a couple of times a year, usually in spring and occasionally in summer if necessary.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells 'Pear Crisp' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of one-third peat moss, one-third garden loam, and one-third coarse sand or perlite can create an ideal environment for this plant.
RepottingCoral Bells 'Pear Crisp' should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Spring is the best time to repot this perennial plant.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells 'Pear Crisp' thrives in average household humidity levels. They do not require overly humid conditions and can tolerate some degree of dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Coral Bells 'Pear Crisp' near a bright window and water when topsoil dries.
Outdoor
Plant Coral Bells 'Pear Crisp' in dappled shade and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleHeuchera 'Pear Crisp', commonly known as Coral Bells, initiates its life cycle when the seeds are sown or vegetative propagation through division occurs. The seeds germinate, typically in spring, and seedlings develop into young plants with characteristic ruffled lime-green leaves. As Coral Bells mature, they form a basal rosette of foliage and, in late spring to early summer, shoot up slender flower stalks bearing small bell-shaped flowers, attracting pollinators. After flowering, seeds form and are dispersed, completing the reproductive stage. Throughout the growing season, Coral Bells experience vegetative growth, during which they expand their foliage and may spread through stolons. In winter, the plant becomes dormant, with foliage persisting in milder climates, and reemerges in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Heuchera 'Pear Crisp', commonly known as Coral Bells, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular and reliable method. This should ideally be done in early spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, gently dig up the plant, ensuring you keep a good amount of roots attached. Carefully separate the crowns to create smaller plants, each with a portion of the root system. Replant these divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing previously and water them well. It is important not to let the roots dry out during this process. Dividing Heuchera not only propagates the plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
