Heuchera & Heucherella
The genus Heuchera includes at least 50 species of hardy, herbaceous perennials that are native to various areas of North America. Common names include alumroot and coral bells. Heucherella are inter-generic hybrids combining two North American species, Heuchera and Tiarella. Both plants attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Hardiness Zones 4-9.
It’s the foliage that makes Heuchera a “must-have” plant for the patio and garden. Purple, black, red, orange, brown, silver, chartreuse, you name it, you can most likely find a Heuchera in that color. In late spring through early summer, bloom spikes of delicate bell shaped flowers in shades of red, pink, white, or purple appear and last for four to eight weeks. Most Heuchera are clumping or mounding in habit while some Heucherella can have a low spreading habit. They make excellent garden plants or premium container plants especially when several colors are mixed together.
The Heuchera and Heucherella varieties offered by Oglesby were carefully select for performance in the southeast U.S. and are cold as well as heat and humidity tolerant. Plugs can be planted anytime of the year and do not require vernalization. In general, both plants prefer partial shade (30-50% shade), although some cultivars will tolerate full sun. Summer in the southeast United States can be stressful time so extra shade and water during the summer season will be beneficial. Always use a high quality soil media that is average to rich fertility, holds moisture well, is well-drained and a pH of 5.8-6.2. Use liquid feed at 50 to 100 ppm or slow release fertilizer at 1 pound N per cubic yard of soil.
When planting young plants into larger containers, always plant crowns high and allow soil to settle in. Plants can exhibit crown or root rot if planted too deep or overwatered. Watch for botrytis and/or powdery mildew when plants are grown using close spacing with poor air circulation. Heuchera suffer from very few pests.
Planting and Handeling: Heuchera and Heucherella have a fibrous root system that can be damaged when being dislodged from the trays. To dislodge the plants properly, always use two hands with one hand gently pulling up on the crown of the plant and the other hand gently squeezing the individual cell the plant is growing in. By applying upward pressure while squeezing, the root area the plant will dislodge intact and be ready to plant into a larger container.
This text is a recommendation only; it is not an endorsement of any products or acceptance of any liability as a result of usage.