Heucherella 'Stoplight' × Heucherella 'Stoplight' (PBR)

Water

Foamy Bells, or Heucherella 'Stoplight', prefer consistently moist soil, so it's important to water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this means watering them once or twice a week. During hotter, drier periods, this may increase to every few days to maintain moisture. Depending on the size of the plant and the weather, this typically equates to around 16-32 ounces of water for smaller plants and up to a gallon for larger ones each time you water.

Light

Foamy Bells thrive in partial shade where they can receive dappled sunlight. The best spot for Heucherella 'Stoplight' would be an area that is protected from the harsh afternoon sun, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Morning sunlight is beneficial, but ensure they have shade during the hottest part of the day.

Temperature

Foamy Bells prefer temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods. They can survive a light frost, but it is best to avoid any extreme cold conditions. The ideal temperature conditions align closely with typical spring and early fall weather in temperate climates.

Pruning

Foamy Bells benefit from pruning to remove any dead or damaged foliage, which encourages healthy growth and maintains an attractive appearance. The best time for pruning Heucherella 'Stoplight' is in early spring or after flowering has finished. Deadheading spent flowers also promotes further blooms. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the year to keep the plant looking tidy.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Foamy Bells 'Stoplight' is well-draining, rich with organic matter, such as a blend of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Foamy Bells 'Stoplight' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container, to provide fresh soil and encourage continued growth.

Humidity & Misting

Foamy Bells 'Stoplight' prefers moderate humidity levels, so aim for relative humidity around 50%. Avoid overly dry air, especially in heated indoor environments during winter.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Foamy Bells 'Stoplight' in bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, shelter from hot sun, and ensure soil is well-drained.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Heucherella 'Stoplight' starts its life cycle when the seeds germinate in warm, moist soil, developing into seedlings with the first true leaves. The seedlings then grow into young plants with a rosette of leaves at the ground level. As the plant matures, it develops a strong root system and forms distinctive foliage with red and yellow markings. During its blooming period in late spring to early summer, it produces small, bell-shaped flowers on slender stems that rise above the foliage. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, which can be dispersed to start a new generation. With the onset of colder weather, Heucherella 'Stoplight' may die back to the ground, becoming dormant during winter, only to renew its growth cycle again in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Foamy Bells 'Stoplight' is commonly propagated through division, which is a popular and effective method. The best time to propagate this plant by division is in the spring or early fall when the weather is cool, and the plant is not in the stress of summer heat. To divide Foamy Bells 'Stoplight,' carefully dig up the entire plant with a garden fork or spade, ensuring a generous amount of roots and soil are kept intact around the clump. Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good amount of roots and at least a few leaves or buds. Replant the new divisions promptly, spacing them about 15 to 18 inches apart (approximately 38 to 45 centimeters) to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help them establish. It is important to maintain consistent moisture for the divisions until they are well-rooted and showing signs of growth.