How to Grow Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost'
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Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost'
Heuchera × brizoides 'Burgundy Frost'
flowerHeuchera 'Burgundy Frost' is a compact coral bell cultivar prized for its striking foliage, featuring deep burgundy leaves with silver-gray frosting. This semi-evergreen perennial produces delicate red-tinged flowers on tall spikes above the colorful basal foliage mound. It serves as an excellent accent plant in mixed borders, rock gardens, and containers.
When should you plant Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost' in your zone?
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Example Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost'
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 Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost' 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 4-8; cold-hardy to zone 3, heat-tolerant to zone 9 with afternoon shade
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Get my Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeks after plantingYoung plant settles in with 2-4 leaves emerging from crown; foliage shows burgundy coloring with hints of silver
Keep consistently moist without waterlogging. Protect from extreme heat. Avoid transplant shock by planting in cool weather
Vegetative Growth
Spring through mid-summerFoliage mound expands; leaves develop deeper burgundy color with prominent silvery-gray frosting; crown becomes denser
Maintain moderate moisture. Remove any damaged outer leaves. Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Flowering
Late spring through summer (May-July)Delicate red-tinged flowers emerge on tall, thin spikes above the foliage mound; flowers appear in dense, airy panicles
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage longer bloom. Water at base to keep foliage dry. Flowers attract hummingbirds and pollinators
Post-Flowering
Late summer through fallFlower spikes fade and can be removed; foliage remains vibrant and maintains ornamental value through fall and winter
Cut back dead flower stems. Reduce watering slightly as temperatures cool. Leave some foliage for winter interest and frost protection
Dormancy/Winter
November through March (varies by zone)Plant enters semi-evergreen state; foliage darkens further in cold, becoming almost purple-black; growth slows significantly
Minimal watering needed. Ensure good drainage to prevent crown rot during wet winter conditions. Do not prune severely; wait until spring growth resumes
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand at night; apply neem oil; use beneficial nematodes in soil; avoid overwatering
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Remove affected leaves promptly; spray insecticidal soap; maintain plant vigor and avoid excessive nitrogen
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering; remove affected portions; replant in fresh soil if severe
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Remove by hand; use copper barriers or slug traps; encourage ground beetles and other predators
Uses
Edible flowers in salads
CulinaryThe delicate flowers are edible with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can garnish salads, desserts, or cocktails. However, the main ornamental value far outweighs culinary use. [source]
Floral arrangements and crafts
CraftThe tall, airy flower spikes and colorful foliage are excellent additions to fresh and dried floral arrangements. Leaves retain color when pressed and can be used in craft projects. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe red-tinged flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. Provides nectar throughout the summer bloom period. [source]
Ornamental foliage and landscape design
HouseholdThe striking burgundy and silver foliage provides year-round color and texture in borders, rock gardens, containers, and mixed plantings. Works exceptionally well as a foliage accent in shade gardens. [source]
Traditional herbal uses
MedicinalHeuchera species have been used in traditional Native American medicine for astringent and tonic properties, though 'Burgundy Frost' is primarily ornamental. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental plant valued for foliage and flowers. Cut flower spikes for arrangements when they first open. Harvest individual leaves for decorative purposes or remove damaged foliage throughout the season. Divide clumps in early spring or fall every 3-4 years to rejuvenate and propagate
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The distinctive silver-gray frosting on the burgundy leaves is caused by the way light reflects off microscopic ridges on the leaf surface, creating a metallic or crystalline appearance that intensifies in cool weather
- 🌱 Heuchera 'Burgundy Frost' is a hybrid cultivar resulting from breeding programs that crossed multiple Heuchera species to combine the best foliage colors and hardiness traits
- 🌱 The common name 'coral bells' refers to the bell-shaped flowers, though 'Burgundy Frost' flowers are more delicate and less prominent than the actual coral bells (Heuchera sanguinea)
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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