Perennials
Coral Flower (Heuchera)

Coral Flower (Heuchera)

Those who like foliage will enjoy Coral Flowers, or Heucheras. There are more than 50 species, mostly native to rocky places in North America and they all look good in gardens. Their leaves have colour surprises underneath, where they're often a completely different colour from the top. If your garden is very shady, then these are the plants to try. Shown here is 'Amber Waves'.
Price: Expect to pay about £2.50 for a small plant.

The Knowledge

  • Plant Type: Perennial
  • Height: 25.4cm (10in)
  • Spread: 38.1cm (15in)
  • Situation: Shady
  • Soil Type: Poor to medium rich
Heuchera enthusiasm is rather new. There are some exciting new hybrids and variations in leaf colour, especially some of the lighter or yellow-leaved varieties that are great for lifting a dark, dingy corner. Plant them under hedgerows and under trees and beside shady walls. They can even be grown under walnut trees, which is surprising, since most plants are killed off by the walnut's root poisons.

Heucheras belong to the saxifrage family. Saxifrage literally means 'rock splitter', so plant your Heucheras among rocks and in shady scree gardens for maximum effect. Their attractive flowers are borne high above the plant.

Looking Good:
Look out for these fabulous foliage plants during April and May at The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh.

Best with:
Try them with Ivy (Hedera Helix).
 
 
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