Heuchera Care Guide
Suitable for all varieties including Wild Rose, Marmalade, Sugar Frosting, Melting Fire, and the Little Cutie range.
Overview
Heucheras, also known as Coral Bells, are hardy, low-maintenance perennials grown for their colourful foliage and elegant mounding habit. They are ideal for UK gardens, particularly in shaded or semi-shaded borders, containers, and as underplanting for shrubs and roses. Many are evergreen and add year-round interest.
Light Requirements
• Partial to full shade is ideal for most varieties.
• Varieties with darker foliage (e.g. Midnight Rose, Black Pearl, Licorice) can tolerate more sun.
• Lighter-leaved or variegated varieties (e.g. Green Spice, Little Cutie Frost, Key Lime) prefer more shade to avoid scorching.
• For container plants, consider moving pots seasonally to protect from harsh sun or excessive winter exposure.
Soil & Planting
• Plant in well-drained soil, enriched with compost or organic matter.
• Avoid heavy clay or boggy sites; raised beds or containers work well.
• Heucheras dislike sitting in wet soil, especially in winter.
• When planting in the ground, dig a hole slightly larger than the pot, and plant so the crown is just above soil level.
Watering
• Keep evenly moist but not soggy – especially in the first season and during dry spells.
• Container plants dry out faster and will need more frequent watering.
• Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage crown rot – water at the base.
Feeding
• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring as new growth appears.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which promote soft growth prone to pests.
• Container-grown plants may benefit from a light mid-summer feed (e.g. liquid seaweed).
Maintenance & Pruning
• Remove faded or tattered leaves regularly to keep plants tidy and encourage fresh growth.
• In late winter or early spring, cut back old foliage to allow new leaves to emerge.
• Deadhead flowers if desired, although leaving flower stalks can support pollinators and add visual interest.
Flowering
• Heucheras produce slender flower stalks in late spring to early summer.
• Some varieties (e.g. Forever Red, Sugar Frosting) are more floriferous.
• While grown mainly for foliage, flowers attract bees and can be left or trimmed depending on your style.
Pests & Problems
• Generally low-maintenance, but watch for:
o Vine Weevil (notched leaf edges or collapsed plants) – use nematodes or barrier treatments.
o Aphids – wash off with water or treat with organic soap spray.
o Rust or powdery mildew – improve airflow, remove affected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.
Dividing & Rejuvenating
• After 3–4 years, Heucheras may become woody or leggy in the centre.
• Divide in spring or early autumn by lifting and cutting into smaller sections, each with roots and fresh growth.
• Replant immediately and water well.
Container Growing
• Use a well-draining mix: multipurpose compost mixed with grit or perlite.
• Best in 9–14 cm nursery pots for young plants or 2–3L pots for display.
• Heucheras pair beautifully with ferns, hostas, and seasonal colour in mixed containers.
Variety-Specific Notes
• Little Cutie Range (e.g. Blondie, Frost, Peppermint): Compact and ideal for smaller pots or edging.
• Marmalade: Can tolerate more sun and adds rich amber colour to borders.
• Silver Gumdrop / Sugar Frosting: Delicate silvers and pinks – ideal for part shade in mixed arrangements.
• Wild Rose / Forever Red: Bold leaf colour that shines in darker corners.
• Black Pearl / Licorice: Dramatic tones; excellent for contrast planting.
Snows Mini Tip
We grow all our Heucheras by hand in small batches in South Wales. That means stronger roots, hardier plants, and more personality in every pot. We only sell what we’d proudly grow ourselves.