How to Grow Burgundy Coral Bells
Burgundy Coral Bells
Heuchera 'Palace Purple'
flowerBurgundy Coral Bells is a striking ornamental foliage plant prized for its deep wine-red to purple heart-shaped leaves that provide year-round color. It produces delicate coral to pink flower spikes in spring and early summer, standing 12-18 inches above the foliage. This semi-evergreen perennial is perfect for adding dramatic color contrast to shade gardens and borders.
When should you plant Burgundy Coral Bells in your zone?
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Example Burgundy Coral Bells timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burgundy Coral Bells
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Burgundy Coral Bells blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Get my Burgundy Coral Bells timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling/Young Plant
4-6 weeksSmall rosettes with emerging burgundy foliage, initially lighter in color than mature leaves
Keep soil moist but well-draining; protect from direct sun in first weeks; maintain humidity around young plants
Mature Foliage
Spring through fallFull-sized rosette with deep wine-burgundy leaves displaying excellent color; plant reaches 6-8 inches height
Reduce watering frequency as plant establishes; deadhead spent flowers to encourage foliage focus; avoid crowding
Flowering
4-6 weeks (April-June depending on zone)Delicate coral, pink, or pale red flower spikes emerge on thin stems above foliage, rising 12-18 inches tall
Flowering occurs in spring to early summer; allow some flowers to remain for aesthetic appeal or deadhead for foliage focus; stake tall flower stems if needed in windy locations
Dormancy/Winter
November-MarchFoliage remains semi-evergreen; color may intensify or darken with cold temperatures; growth slows significantly
Reduce watering in colder zones; apply winter mulch in zones 3-4; cut back dead flower stems; avoid heavy foot traffic over plants
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick adults at dusk; use insecticidal soap; apply beneficial nematodes to soil; avoid excessive mulch that harbors pests
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or neem oil at first sign; remove heavily affected leaves
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Remove hiding spots; handpick; use beer traps or copper barriers; apply diatomaceous earth; encourage ground beetles
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Remove infected leaves; improve drainage and air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Dramatic Shade Garden Color
OrnamentalBurgundy Coral Bells provides striking deep purple-red foliage year-round, making it an excellent contrast plant in shaded borders and woodland gardens. [source]
Pollinator Nectar Source
WildlifeThe delicate coral and pink flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators, supporting early-season wildlife. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
CraftThe coral flower spikes and attractive foliage can be cut for fresh or dried floral arrangements and provide long-lasting structure. [source]
Container and Border Edging
HouseholdCompact growth habit makes Burgundy Coral Bells ideal for containers, raised beds, rock gardens, and as a ground-level border accent plant. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental foliage plant, not typically harvested. Cut flower stems at the base once they fade if deadheading. Remove any dead or damaged foliage in spring. Divide plants every 2-3 years in spring to rejuvenate and prevent woody crowns.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Burgundy Coral Bells retains its rich color year-round, with foliage often becoming even more intensely colored in cold winters due to anthocyanin pigments.
- 🌱 The plant was introduced in 1991 and has become one of the most popular Heuchera cultivars, winning numerous horticultural awards including RHS recognition.
- 🌱 Coral Bells are native to North America and have been used ornamentally for centuries; modern hybrids have expanded color ranges dramatically beyond the original species.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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