Native Coral Bells Also Known as Alum Root and Heuchera
Hundreds of varieties of colorful coral bells (Heuchera), also known as alum root, can be found in landscapes across the country. Their unique leaf shape, coloration, and bell-shaped flowers prompted this surge in popularity.
Many of the popular coral bells are hybrids of the North American native alum roots. The American alum root (Heuchera americana) is native to the eastern United States, where it grows in rocky open woodlands, on ledges and in crevices of bluffs. The naturally occurring variety, interior, has ruffled leaves with silver streaks and purple highlights.
The maple leaved alum root (Heuchera villosa var. atropurpurea) has burgundy foliage topped with spikes of white flowers in late summer through fall. This durable plant is native to the Appalachian Mountains and suited to shady garden locations.
A bit more information: Heuchera villosa is more heat and humidity tolerant than other Heuchera species. It has been used in breeding some of the more heat tolerant cultivars like Georgia Peach, Autumn Bride and Citronelle.
Categories
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now
May 4, 2024
Garden U 2024
New Richmond, WI
Register now
May 9, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
How to Plant Your Rain Garden
Register now
May 11, 2024
Ask The Plant Doctor Q & A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 12, 2024
Ask The Plant Doctor Q & A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 18, 2024
Ask The Plant Doctor Q & A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
June 1, 2024
Selecting, Planting, Pruning and Caring for Hydrangeas
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
June 5, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Under-Appreciated Pollinators
Register now
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More