Complete Gardening
Heuchera, commonly known as coral bells, are prized for their vibrant foliage and adaptability to shady areas. These perennial plants offer a diverse palette of colors, making them perfect for adding visual interest to gardens that receive little sunlight.
With a variety of leaf shapes and rich hues, Heucheras thrive in woodland settings and provide a lush, textural contrast to other shade-loving plants.
1. Heuchera ‘Obsidian’
Heuchera ‘Obsidian’ is a striking variety known for its glossy, dark purple leaves that almost appear black. This dramatic color makes it a standout addition to any garden.
The foliage maintains its rich hue throughout the growing season, enhancing the depth and texture of shaded areas. Plant ‘Obsidian’ in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Regular watering will keep the leaves vibrant and healthy.
This variety pairs beautifully with silver-leaved plants, creating an eye-catching contrast. Its durability and shade tolerance make it a favorite among gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance.
2. Heuchera ‘Caramel’
Heuchera ‘Caramel’ features warm, amber leaves that bring a cozy glow to shady spots. Its unique color palette changes with the seasons, starting with golden tones that deepen to rich caramel as the plant matures.
The soft, downy texture of the leaves adds an inviting element to garden paths and borders. Best planted in partial shade, ‘Caramel’ thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Pair it with violet or blue flowers for a delightful color combination.
This variety is not only attractive but also drought-resistant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens.
3. Heuchera ‘Lime Marmalade’
Heuchera ‘Lime Marmalade’ is celebrated for its vibrant lime green leaves that light up darker garden areas. This variety brings a fresh, zesty feel to the landscape, making it a favorite for brightening up gloomy spots.
The ruffled leaves provide a beautiful texture that complements other shade-tolerant plants. ‘Lime Marmalade’ prefers cool, shaded environments with rich, well-draining soil. Regular watering helps maintain its vibrant color.
Ideal for borders and containers, it pairs well with purple or burgundy plants. Its vigorous growth and stunning color make it a standout choice for shade gardens.
4. Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’
Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’ offers a unique look with its dark, almost black leaves adorned with bright pink spots. This striking combination adds a splash of color and drama to any garden setting.
The contrast between the dark foliage and pink specks draws attention and invites closer inspection. ‘Midnight Rose’ thrives in partial to full shade and prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil.
It is an excellent choice for adding visual interest to borders and mixed plantings. Regular deadheading encourages new growth. This variety is perfect for gardeners seeking a bold, distinctive addition to their shade garden.
5. Heuchera ‘Peach Flambé’
Heuchera ‘Peach Flambé’ captivates with its brilliant peach-colored foliage that fades to rose and burgundy as the seasons change. This variety adds warmth and vibrancy to shaded garden areas.
The leaves are smooth and slightly glossy, providing a sleek texture that contrasts beautifully with rougher plants. ‘Peach Flambé’ thrives in partial shade and requires well-drained soil to flourish. Water regularly to maintain its vivid color.
It pairs well with plants that have dark or green foliage, creating a lively display. This variety is ideal for brightening borders and creating a cheerful atmosphere.
6. Heuchera ‘Silver Scrolls’
Heuchera ‘Silver Scrolls’ is distinguished by its silvery leaves with intricate dark veins and purple undersides. This elegant variety adds a touch of sophistication to any garden.
The foliage’s metallic sheen catches the light, creating a dynamic effect as the leaves sway. ‘Silver Scrolls’ is perfect for shady borders and as a groundcover under trees. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and benefits from regular watering.
This variety pairs beautifully with white or pastel flowers, enhancing its subtle beauty. Its resilience and unique coloring make it a popular choice for gardeners seeking elegance.
7. Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’
Heuchera ‘Palace Purple’ is famous for its deep purplish-bronze leaves that provide a regal touch to gardens. This variety’s rich, dark foliage stands out in shaded areas, creating a majestic backdrop for lighter-colored plants.
The leaves’ glossy surface adds a refined texture, catching and reflecting light. ‘Palace Purple’ prefers partial shade and grows well in moist, well-drained soil. It benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture.
This variety is perfect for mass plantings or as a focal point in mixed borders. Its robust nature and striking color make it a classic choice for gardeners.
8. Heuchera ‘Berry Smoothie’
Heuchera ‘Berry Smoothie’ delights with its vibrant pink foliage that adds a playful pop of color to shady garden spots. The large, rounded leaves have a smooth texture, resembling a refreshing berry smoothie.
This variety’s bright hue stands out against darker plants, making it ideal for creating focal points. ‘Berry Smoothie’ thrives in partial shade and prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil. It requires regular watering to maintain its vivid color and healthy growth.
Pair it with silver or white flowering plants for a striking contrast. This variety is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to gardens.
9. Heuchera ‘Green Spice’
Heuchera ‘Green Spice’ showcases green leaves intricately veined with silver and tinged with purple, offering a unique color palette. This variety adds a refreshing, spicy flair to shaded garden areas.
The foliage’s detailed pattern draws the eye and complements other plants with subtler colors. ‘Green Spice’ thrives in partial shade and requires fertile, well-drained soil. Regular watering ensures robust growth and vibrant leaf color.
It pairs well with pink or red flowering plants, enhancing its striking appearance. This variety is ideal for gardeners looking to introduce a touch of intrigue to their shade gardens.
10. Heuchera ‘Fire Chief’
Heuchera ‘Fire Chief’ makes a bold statement with its bright red leaves that provide a fiery burst of color in shaded gardens. The foliage holds its vibrant hue throughout the growing season, adding energy and warmth.
The smooth, rounded leaves create a pleasing texture contrast with other foliage. ‘Fire Chief’ prefers partial shade and thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Regular watering enhances its color and growth.
It pairs beautifully with white or blue flowers, creating a striking visual display. This variety is perfect for gardeners seeking to liven up their shady areas with a splash of red.
11. Heuchera ‘Amber Waves’
Heuchera ‘Amber Waves’ is known for its stunning golden amber leaves that add a warm glow to shady garden areas. The leaves have a slightly ruffled texture, providing an interesting visual contrast to smoother foliage.
‘Amber Waves’ thrives in partial to full shade and prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Regular watering helps maintain its golden hue. This variety pairs beautifully with dark-leaved plants, creating a harmonious color balance.
It is ideal for borders or as an accent plant in mixed plantings. Its radiant color and unique texture make it a captivating choice for shade gardens.
12. Heuchera ‘Electra’
Heuchera ‘Electra’ dazzles with its vibrant yellow leaves intricately veined with red, resembling a lightning bolt pattern. This dramatic foliage adds an electrifying energy to shaded areas.
The leaves’ bold colors create a striking contrast that draws the eye. ‘Electra’ thrives in partial shade and requires well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Regular watering ensures healthy growth and vivid leaf color.
Pair it with dark or blue-flowering plants to enhance its dramatic appearance. This variety is perfect for gardeners looking to introduce a bold, dynamic element to their shade gardens, offering both beauty and intrigue.
13. Heuchera ‘Frosted Violet’
Heuchera ‘Frosted Violet’ is celebrated for its soft violet leaves dusted with a delicate silver sheen. This elegant variety adds a cool, soothing touch to shaded garden areas.
The leaves’ subtle colors and soft texture create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for peaceful garden retreats. ‘Frosted Violet’ thrives in partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Regular watering enhances its delicate coloring.
Pair it with white or pastel flowering plants for a harmonious effect. This variety is ideal for gardeners seeking to create a serene, calming environment in their shade gardens.
14. Heuchera ‘Cherry Cola’
Heuchera ‘Cherry Cola’ is a delightful variety with reddish-brown leaves that resemble the rich hue of cherry cola. This unique color adds depth and warmth to shaded garden spaces.
The leaves’ smooth texture and rounded shape provide an appealing contrast to jagged or spiky foliage. ‘Cherry Cola’ thrives in partial shade and prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Regular watering keeps its color vibrant and growth vigorous.
Pair it with golden or yellow-leaved plants for a stunning color combination. This variety is perfect for gardeners looking to introduce a warm, inviting element to their gardens.
15. Heuchera ‘Black Beauty’
Heuchera ‘Black Beauty’ is renowned for its dark, almost black leaves that bring a touch of mystery to shady areas. This dramatic foliage provides a striking contrast to lighter plants, enhancing visual interest.
The leaves’ velvety texture adds a luxurious feel, making it a standout in any garden setting. ‘Black Beauty’ thrives in partial to full shade and requires well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Regular watering ensures healthy growth and deep coloration.
Pair it with silver or white plants for a sophisticated look. This variety is ideal for creating bold, eye-catching displays in shade gardens.
16. Heuchera ‘Georgia Peach’
Heuchera ‘Georgia Peach’ features large, soft peach-colored leaves that bring a warm, inviting glow to shaded garden areas. This variety’s unique color changes with the seasons, deepening to rose and purple in cooler months.
The leaves’ smooth texture and rounded shape complement other shade plants beautifully. ‘Georgia Peach’ thrives in partial shade and prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil. Consistent watering keeps its color vibrant and growth robust.
Pair it with dark or green foliage for a striking contrast. This variety is perfect for adding warmth and charm to any garden setting.
17. Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’
Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’ is distinguished by its deep plum-colored leaves that add a rich, regal touch to shaded gardens. The leaves’ velvety texture and rounded edges create a soft, luxurious appearance.
‘Plum Pudding’ thrives in partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Regular watering enhances its deep color and healthy growth.
Pair it with silver or pastel flowers for a sophisticated look. This variety is ideal for gardeners seeking to introduce a touch of elegance and depth to their shade gardens, offering both beauty and versatility.