Coral Bells Heuchera 'Plum Royale' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Heuchera 'Plum Royale', commonly known as Coral Bells, is an eye-catching perennial known for its vibrant and uniquely colored foliage. The leaves of this attractive plant are a striking shade of plum-purple, often showcasing a silver overlay that gives them a shimmering appearance. The foliage adds a touch of elegance with its rounded, lobed edges and subtle veining, which may be more pronounced depending on the light conditions. As the seasons change, the leaves can take on different hues, further enhancing their ornamental value. In addition to the lush leaves, Coral Bells produce delicate, bell-shaped flowers that emerge on tall, slender stems, rising above the foliage mound. These flowers are typically small and may come in shades of white, pink, or red, creating a delightful contrast against the dark tones of the leaves. The blooms are known to attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, adding an extra layer of life and activity to the garden. The overall habit of the plant is mounded, creating a rounded shape that softens garden edges and adds texture to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot
Common names
Heuchera 'Plum Royale'
ToxicityTo humans
Coral Bells are generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. Therefore, no symptoms of poisoning are typically expected if any part of Heuchera 'Plum Royale' is ingested. It is always advisable to avoid consuming any plant material unless it is known to be edible, and to keep plants away from young children who might ingest them out of curiosity.
To pets
Coral Bells are also generally recognized as non-toxic to pets. This means that if pets such as cats or dogs were to ingest parts of Heuchera 'Plum Royale', they are unlikely to suffer from poisoning. As with humans, it is best practice to monitor pets and prevent them from eating plants when the plants are not intended for consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Purple
Flower color
White
Height
1 feet 6 inches (45 cm)
Spread
1 feet 6 inches (45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Heuchera 'Plum Royale' offers year-round purple foliage that adds striking color and texture to any garden space.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Coral Bells are relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care and watering.
- Drought Tolerant: They can tolerate periods of drought, which makes them suitable for xeriscaping or gardens with limited water availability.
- Pest and Disease Resistant: This plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Versatile in Landscaping: Coral Bells can be used in various garden settings from borders, ground covers, to container plantings, offering great versatility.
- Attracts Pollinators: The delicate flowers of Heuchera 'Plum Royale' can attract butterflies and hummingbirds, benefiting the local ecosystem.
- Tolerant of Various Soil Types: It can grow in a range of soil conditions, from clay to sandy soils, as long as the soil is well-draining.
- Seasonal Interest: Produces delicate bell-shaped flowers in early summer that adds seasonal interest to the garden.
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 Heuchera 'Plum Royale' can be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics, yielding shades of plum or mauve depending on the mordant used.
- Photography backdrop: The rich, plum-colored foliage provides a vibrant background for macro or close-up photography, enhancing the visual appeal of the subject.
- Educational tool: This plant can be used in teaching botany or horticulture, helping students learn about plant care, propagation, and the variety of foliage colors in garden plants.
- Leaf casting: Its leaves can be a medium for making decorative concrete or plaster casts, capturing the intricate veining and shape for garden ornaments.
- Terrariums: Heuchera 'Plum Royale' can be used in terrariums, providing a pop of color and interesting texture alongside other small plants.
- Culinary presentation: The leaves may serve as a unique and colorful plating element for upscale culinary presentations.
- Seasonal decorations: The foliage can be incorporated into fall or winter floral arrangements or wreaths due to its seasonal color and hardiness.
- Artistic inspiration: The plant can inspire artists and designers with its color and form, influencing pieces of artwork, fabric patterns, or interior designs.
- Garden themed parties: Use as a theme for garden parties or plant swaps, where the color and form of Heuchera 'Plum Royale' guide the aesthetic of the event.
- Watercolor painting: The unique hues of the leaves can be used as live models for watercolor artists attempting to capture the beauty of foliage in their artwork.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiHeuchera 'Plum Royale' is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityCoral Bells is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Durability: Heuchera, also known as Coral Bells, is a perennial plant symbolizing durability because of its ability to withstand challenging conditions in the garden, returning year after year.
- Versatility: The variety of Heuchera colors and its adaptability to different environments signifies versatility and the ability to thrive in diverse situations.
- Beauty in the shade: Coral Bells typically grow well in shaded areas, representing beauty in low-light conditions or during difficult times.
- Attraction: With its vibrant foliage and flowers, this plant symbolizes the attraction and can be used to draw attention or to beckon positive interest.
WaterCoral Bells require consistent moisture, so water about once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It is important to water deeply, so provide enough water to soak the soil thoroughly. For an average-sized plant, this usually means using about 0.5 gallons. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler, wetter conditions, you may water less often. Avoid letting the plant sit in water as Coral Bells do not like wet feet, which can lead to root rot.
LightCoral Bells thrive in conditions where they receive partial to full shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is harshest. Ideal locations are areas with filtered sunlight or dappled shade, such as under a canopy of deciduous trees. They can handle morning sun but should be protected from strong, direct afternoon rays to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureCoral Bells prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F but can withstand temperatures slightly outside this range. They are generally hardy in zones 4 through 9, withstanding minimum temperatures down to about -30°F and maximum summer temperatures up to about 85°F. However, in areas with hot summers, additional shade and moisture may be required to keep the plant healthy.
PruningPruning of Coral Bells consists mainly of removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain a neat appearance and promote healthy growth. The best time for pruning is in early spring, as new growth begins to appear. Trimming back the foliage in late autumn or early winter can also help reduce the risk of disease. Cut the old foliage back to the crown of the plant every year to make room for new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral bells thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, having a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of one part garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or vermiculite is recommended.
RepottingCoral bells typically need repotting every 3 to 4 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. This timeframe can vary depending on the size of the container and rate of growth.
Humidity & MistingCoral bells prefer moderate humidity levels but can tolerate a range of conditions. No specific humidity level is required, just avoid overly dry air which may stress the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, enriched soil, avoid waterlogged areas.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Coral Bells 'Plum Royale' starts its life as a seed, which upon germination grows into a small seedling. As it matures, the seedling develops a basal rosette of purple leaves and robust roots. When it reaches maturity, usually within a few months to a year, it produces tall flowering stalks, with small, bell-shaped flowers, typically during late spring to summer. After pollination, these flowers develop into capsules containing seeds. Once the flowering period ends, the plant may enter a dormancy period, especially in colder climates, where the foliage dies back, and the plant relies on its root system to survive the winter. The plant then emerges again in the spring, completing its perennial cycle and continuing this process for several years, sometimes up to 5 years or more, depending on environmental conditions and care provided.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Heuchera 'Plum Royale', commonly known as Coral Bells, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time for dividing Heuchera is in early spring or late summer, after the heat of the summer has passed but before the plant enters its winter dormancy. To propagate by division, carefully dig up an established Heuchera 'Plum Royale' plant and gently separate the crowns. Each divided section should have a portion of the root system attached. These new divisions can then be planted directly into the garden or into pots, where they should be watered thoroughly and kept evenly moist until they are established. The divisions can often flower in the following growing season if provided with the right conditions. Division helps to rejuvenate older plants as well, encouraging more vigorous growth and better blooming.
