Coral Bells Heuchera 'Tiramisu' (PBR)
ABOUT
Heuchera 'Tiramisu', commonly known as Coral Bells, is a perennial plant that boasts a stunning display of foliage and flowers. The leaves are particularly eye-catching with their unique color transitions. They emerge with a red blush in the spring, and as they mature, they take on a chartreuse-yellow hue with red veins. The red tones deepen when the temperature cools, particularly in fall. The foliage's lobed and gently ruffled edges add texture and a lush look to the plant. Coral Bells 'Tiramisu' produces delicate bell-shaped flowers that extend on slender stems above the colorful foliage. These tiny flowers are usually creamy white to pale pink and form loose clusters that hover like a mist above the leaves. The contrast between the bright and vivid foliage and the subtle flowers creates an alluring aesthetic in garden settings. The blooms are often visited by hummingbirds and other pollinators, adding to the plant's charm and liveliness. 'Tiramisu' brings an impressive range of colors to the landscape, changing through the seasons and making it a versatile garden choice not only for its flowers but substantially for its attractive leaves. The overall appearance of the Heuchera 'Tiramisu' is one of elegant variegation and seasonal interest, without the need to specify its dimensions.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coral Bells, Alumroot.
Common names
Heuchera 'Tiramisu' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Coral bells, which include the variety Heuchera 'Tiramisu', are not known to be toxic to humans. They are generally considered safe and non-poisonous if touched or ingested. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities or allergies can occur, so it's always best to handle plants with care and not consume parts of ornamental plants.
To pets
Coral bells, including the variety Heuchera 'Tiramisu', are not listed as toxic to pets. They are commonly grown in gardens and used in landscaping without posing significant risks to animals. As with humans, individual animals might have sensitivities, so monitoring for any unusual reactions and keeping ornamental plants out of reach of curious pets is advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1 feet 2 inches (35 cm)
Spread
1 feet 2 inches (35 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to grow: Heuchera 'Tiramisu' is a hardy perennial that requires minimal maintenance once established.
- Long-lasting foliage: It offers attractive foliage throughout multiple seasons, with leaves that change color as they mature.
- Drought-tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers of the Coral Bells plant attract hummingbirds and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Versatile in landscaping: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, from borders to containers, and as underplanting for taller plants.
- Deer and rabbit resistant: The plant is generally resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, protecting it from wildlife damage.
- Seasonal interest: Provides visual interest throughout the seasons from spring to fall with its unique, multi-colored foliage.
- Compact size: Ideal for smaller gardens or spaces, as it does not occupy a lot of room and grows in attractive mounds or clumps.
- Rust and mildew resistant: The varietal traits of Heuchera 'Tiramisu' include resistance to common foliar diseases like rust and powdery mildew.
- Soil adaptable: Coral Bells can thrive in a range of soil types, although they prefer well-draining soil with moderate fertility.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Background: The unique foliage of Coral Bells can provide a beautiful, textured backdrop for macro or close-up photography, enhancing the visual interest of the photo.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture students and enthusiasts can use Coral Bells to study hybridization and the development of plant cultivars due to its many varieties.
- Artistic Inspiration: The foliage of Coral Bells can inspire artists and designers, who can replicate its interesting colors and patterns in various forms of artwork and textile designs.
- Theme Gardens: Coral Bells 'Tiramisu' can be incorporated into a dessert-themed garden due to its name, alongside other plants with food-related names.
- Fairy Gardens: The compact size and ornamental leaves make Coral Bells a good plant for creating fairy gardens and miniature landscapes.
- Seasonal Displays: The foliage changes color with the seasons, which can be utilized in gardens or containers to create living displays that transform throughout the year.
- Border Accenting: Coral Bells can provide a contrasting edge along garden pathways or borders when combined with darker green plants or mulch.
- Event Decoration: The foliage can be used in floral arrangements or as table decorations for events, adding a touch of nature to the aesthetic.
- Color Theme Gardens: Gardeners can create a color-themed garden area using the palette of Coral Bells 'Tiramisu', which offers shades of yellow, green, and red.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not typically used for eating, the leaves can occasionally be used as a non-toxic garnish for plating dishes, much like other more common herbs and greens.
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- Resilience: Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, is known for its ability to thrive in different conditions, symbolizing the capacity to adapt and endure challenges.
- Variety: With its diverse range of foliage colors, Coral Bells represent the beauty of diversity and the richness it brings into our lives.
- Brightness in the Shade: As a plant that flourishes in shaded areas, Coral Bells symbolize finding joy and brightness even in darker or more challenging times.
- Lasting Attraction: The long-lasting nature of Coral Bell blooms is often associated with enduring beauty and long-standing appeal in various aspects of life.
- Balanced Growth: Coral Bells grow in a mounding fashion, which can be seen as a symbol of balanced growth, reminding us to grow evenly in all aspects of our lives.
WaterCoral Bells should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically equates to about once a week during active growth periods, but this can vary based on climate and soil conditions. It's important to ensure even moisture without waterlogging the soil, as the roots are prone to rot if conditions are too wet. Generally, this may involve applying approximately 1 gallon of water per plant for each watering session, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage strong root development. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, whereas in cooler, wetter conditions, watering can be reduced. Always check the soil moisture level to guide your watering schedule.
LightCoral Bells thrive in a spot that offers partial shade to full shade, especially in areas with hot afternoon sun. The best location provides morning sun and afternoon shade, protecting the plant from the harsh midday sun that can scorch the leaves. Bright, indirect light helps bring out the vibrant colors of the foliage, but too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to fade and suffer.
TemperatureCoral Bells are hardy in a wide range of temperatures, handling minimum temperatures down to about minus 25°F and maximum temperatures well into the 90s°F. The ideal temperature range for growing this perennial is between 60°F and 70°F, which encourages robust growth and vibrant foliage coloration. They are quite frost-tolerant and can survive winter cold, although a layer of mulch around the base can help to insulate the roots in extremely cold climates.
PruningCoral Bells should be pruned to remove any damaged or dead foliage and to encourage a tidy growth habit. Pruning is best done in the spring to tidy up any winter damage and again in the summer if any leaves become discolored or damaged. Deadheading the flower stalks after blooming can also promote a second flush of flowers. The best time for major pruning and shaping is early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCoral Bells 'Tiramisu' thrive in well-draining soil with a mix of peat, compost, and perlite; the ideal pH ranges from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingCoral Bells 'Tiramisu' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingCoral Bells 'Tiramisu' prefer moderate humidity levels and do not require any special humidity considerations.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Coral Bells 'Tiramisu' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Coral Bells 'Tiramisu' in partial to full shade outside.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Heuchera 'Tiramisu', also known as Coral Bells, begins its life as a seed, which when sown, germinates to form a small seedling. With proper conditions—partial to full shade and well-draining soil—the seedling grows into a rosette of scalloped leaves, often featuring colorful variegation that changes from yellow to red throughout the season. As the plant matures, it develops a strong root system and becomes a perennial clump that can withstand winter dormancy, dying back to the ground in cold climates. In late spring to early summer, slender stems rise above the foliage, bearing small bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators, leading to seed formation if properly pollinated. After blooming, Heuchera 'Tiramisu' may experience a period of rest before generating new foliage growth. Under optimal conditions, the plant can live for several years, with division recommended every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and encourage rejuvenation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Coral Bells 'Tiramisu' is typically propagated by division, which is often done in spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig around the plant to lift it from the ground. Once out of the soil, shake or rinse off excess dirt so you can see the root structure. Using a sharp, clean knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one growing point, or "crown," along with some roots. These divisions can then be replanted into prepared soil to the same depth they were growing previously. Make sure to water the new divisions well to help them establish and reduce transplant shock.
