Coral bells Pictures

Coral Bells: A Beautiful Addition to Your Garden

When it comes to adding color and texture to your garden, coral bells are an excellent choice. Also known as Heuchera, these plants are known for their showy foliage and delicate flowers. With a wide range of colors and varieties available, there's a coral bell for every garden.

What Are Coral Bells?

Coral bells are a perennial plant that is native to North America. They are known for their stunning foliage, which comes in a range of colors, including green, purple, silver, and bronze. The leaves are often deeply lobed or scalloped, adding to their visual interest. In addition to their foliage, coral bells also produce delicate flowers on tall stems. The flowers are typically pink, red, or white and bloom in late spring to early summer.

Growing Coral Bells

Coral bells are relatively easy to grow and care for, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some tips for growing these plants in your garden:

Location

Coral bells prefer partial shade to full sun, depending on the variety. They do best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.

Watering

Coral bells prefer moist soil, but they don't like to be waterlogged. Water them regularly, but be sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.

Fertilizing

Coral bells don't require a lot of fertilizer, but they can benefit from a light feeding in the spring. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Pruning

Coral bells don't require a lot of pruning, but you may want to remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking its best. You can also cut back the flower stalks after they have finished blooming.

Varieties of Coral Bells

There are dozens of varieties of coral bells available, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few popular varieties to consider:

'Obsidian'

This variety has dark, almost black foliage that is deeply lobed. The flowers are a bright pink color and bloom in late spring to early summer.

'Palace Purple'

'Palace Purple' is a classic coral bell variety that has deep purple foliage. The flowers are a light pink color and bloom in late spring to early summer.

'Caramel'

This variety has foliage that is a warm caramel color, making it a great choice for adding a pop of color to your garden. The flowers are a light pink color and bloom in late spring to early summer.

'Electric Lime'

'Electric Lime' has bright lime green foliage that is sure to make a statement in your garden. The flowers are a light pink color and bloom in late spring to early summer.

Companion Plants for Coral Bells

Coral bells are a great addition to any garden, but they can also be paired with other plants to create a beautiful and cohesive look. Here are a few companion plants to consider:

Hostas

Hostas are a great companion plant for coral bells because they also prefer partial shade and moist soil. They also have large, showy foliage that complements the delicate leaves of coral bells.

Astilbe

Astilbe is another shade-loving plant that pairs well with coral bells. They both have delicate flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, making them a great choice for adding color and interest to your garden.

Ferns

Ferns are a great choice for adding texture to your garden, and they also pair well with coral bells. They prefer moist soil and partial shade, making them a great choice for planting alongside coral bells.

Conclusion

Coral bells are a beautiful and versatile plant that can add color and texture to your garden. With their showy foliage and delicate flowers, they are sure to make a statement in any landscape. Whether you're a novice gardener or an experienced pro, coral bells are a great choice for any garden.