Coral bells
heuchera sanguinea
Also known as: ["Waving heuchera","Coral flower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its striking coral-red flowers and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Heuchera |
| Botanical Name: | Heuchera sanguinea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly trim throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; in hot regions, provide dappled shade during peak afternoon hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid intense midday sun; rotate pot for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F or 18–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers by cutting just above a leaf node; trim stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain compact form.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow excess to escape.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can damage roots.
Solution: Protect with a layer of mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but less frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHeuchera sanguinea is non-toxic to cats. No toxic effects or physiological impacts have been reported in felines after ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHeuchera sanguinea is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHeuchera sanguinea is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Heuchera sanguinea?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week, but adjust based on climate and season.
Q: Does Heuchera sanguinea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Heuchera sanguinea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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