The latter name refers to the fact that the tannin-rich, astringent roots can be used like alum in the pickling process. Shop All Plants. Foliage plants such as Heuchera (Coral Bells), Hostas with their smooth leaves, Carex (Sedges), ornamental grasses with bright golden foliage such as Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' (Hakone Grass), are also terrific and will carry the display over the year. These plants grow naturally in wooded areas; therefore, when planting coral bells, you’ll want to mimic these growing conditions by placing them in shade or filtered sun. The flower color varies too, with colors ranging from white and pink to light coral and deep red. Sign-up for design ideas, garden trends, and info on new plants. Midsummer flowers rise about a foot above the leaves and attract hummingbirds. Coralbells are the coleus of the perennial world. Applying a fall mulch of 3-4” will prevent frost heaving. Midsummer flowers rise about a foot above the leaves and attract hummingbirds. Plant Savvy. Companion Planting and Design Plant coral bells with other shade lovers, such as hosta, small astilbe, lungwort, and forget-me-nots. These companion plants have colors that contrast well and similar bloom times. The early cultivated species and their hybrids took shade (often dry shade), they were reliably perennial in the cold zones of the northern U.S., and they don't require much maintenance such as frequent division. Companion Coral Bells "Southern Comfort's" unusual peach and golden tones make it a highly compatible companion for other fancy-leaf Heuchera plants with sharply contrasting colors of … Now they come in a whole rainbow of colors, with some varieties grown specifically for their masses of flowers. For the last few years, coral bells (botanical name Heuchera, sometimes referred to commonly as alumroot) have become my go-to plant for adding color and texture to the garden.. These wonderful plants used to come in a few drab colors, with small and insignificant blooms. ... Companion Plants. Companion planting with flowers is another great method, though often the reasons are more aesthetic. Their low-growing, mounding habit makes them a suitable addition to the edges of woodland or natural gardens . Plant Savvy. coral bells = good companions Coral bells are versatile plants: They thrive in shade gardens and sunny spots alike. Palace Purple Coralbells can frost heave in Wisconsin winters if improperly planted or not adequately protected. Heuchera goes by the common names "coral bells" and "alum root". Ideally, coral bells prefer partial shade and average moisture levels. Heuchera, or coral bells, is a great astilbe companion plant. Outside Plants Outdoor Plants Outdoor Gardens Coral Bells Heuchera Coral Bells Plant Shade Garden Plants House Plants Hosta Gardens Foliage Plants What others are saying Coral Bells are a terrific choice for adding a touch of colour towards the front of a border in shady areas and are one of the most versatile of garden plants. HEUCHERA (CORAL BELLS) Heuchera are grown for their decorative foliage.