Plant Profile: Heuchera sanguinea

Coral bells is a perennial plant that forms clumps and is valued for its unique green leaves, which are either heart-shaped or rounded, as well as its upright clusters of small, vibrant flowers that range from pink to red, blooming in late spring.

The dwarf variety, Heuchera sanguinea var. pulchra, reaches a height of just 8 inches and produces fuchsia-pink flowers, thriving in the mountainous regions of Arizona. While it can tolerate full sunlight, it flourishes best in dappled shade and requires well-drained soil.

The genus name, Heuchera, pays tribute to Johann Heinrich von Heucher, an 18th-century German physician and botanist known for his work with medicinal plants. The term "sanguinea" translates to 'blood red,' highlighting the hue of the flowers.

For further information on Heuchera species, stay tuned.

**Quick Identification Tips:**
This acaulescent, upright perennial herb typically grows between 1 to 1.7 feet tall and can spread to a diameter of 1 to 2.5 feet. It flowers from late spring to early summer and needs regular watering during dry spells. Pruning spent flower stalks can promote additional blooms. This plant is often used for edging, as ground cover, and serves as a food source for bees and hummingbirds.

It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter, but it does not tolerate clay soils well. Common issues include rot and pests such as mealybugs and strawberry root weevils.