Heuchera

Most heucheras are evergreen or semi-evergreen, so they can provide foliage colour throughout much of the year. In colder winters some leaves may become tired or die back, but fresh growth appears again in spring. If winter interest is especially important, choose varieties described as reliably evergreen.

Most heucheras grow best in partial or dappled shade. Darker-leaved varieties often tolerate more sun and may develop richer colouring there, while pale, lime and golden varieties are more likely to scorch in strong afternoon sun. The best position therefore depends partly on the foliage colour of the variety.

Heucheras can cope with light to moderate shade, but very deep shade is less suitable. They are particularly useful beneath lightly canopied trees, beside shrubs and in borders that receive only part of the day’s sun. In very dark positions, growth can become weaker and foliage colour less intense.

The best times to plant heuchera are spring and autumn, when the soil is generally moist and temperatures are mild. They can be planted at other times of year too, provided the ground is neither frozen nor extremely dry. Newly planted heucheras should be watered regularly while they establish.

Yes. Heucheras are excellent plants for pots and containers, where their colourful foliage provides interest for a long season. Use a free-draining peat-free compost and a container with good drainage holes, and avoid allowing the compost to stay waterlogged, particularly over winter.

Yes. Heucheras, or coral bells, produce small bell-shaped flowers on slender stems, usually from early summer and sometimes in further flushes into autumn. The flowers may be white, pink, red or greenish depending on the variety, while the foliage remains the main feature of most cultivars. The blooms are also attractive to bees and other pollinating insects.

Coral bells need very little pruning. Simply remove old, damaged or tatty leaves and faded flower stems as needed. In colder areas, it is often worth leaving tired foliage in place through winter and tidying the plant in spring, as the old leaves help protect the crown.

Heucheras have shallow root systems and their crowns can gradually rise above the surrounding soil, particularly after winter frost or heavy rain. Check plants in spring and, if necessary, lift and replant them so the crown sits at soil level. Older plants can also become woody and benefit from being divided every few years.

One of the most common problems is vine weevil, whose grubs feed on the roots and can cause plants to wilt or collapse unexpectedly. Heucheras can also be affected by rust and leaf scorch, especially when pale-leaved varieties are grown in strong sun. Healthy drainage, suitable light levels and checking container-grown plants regularly all help keep problems to a minimum.