Coral Bells ‘Palace Purple’

Heuchera micrantha var. diversifolia ‘Palace Purple’

Characteristics

Culture

Coral Bells ‘Palace Purple’ is best grown in organically rich, humusy, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Does well in full sun in the northern part of its range. Prefers part shade (particularly with afternoon shade) in the hot summers of the deep South. In Texas, Coral Bells ‘Palace Purple’ performs best in light to part shade, though it does better in full sun than most of the dark-leaved heucheras. If grown in full sun, consistent moisture is needed and soil should not be allowed to dry out. Remove stems of faded flower panicles to encourage continued bloom.  Bloom is more apt to repeat in cool summer climates than hot ones. In cold winter climates, a winter mulch applied after the ground freezes will help prevent root heaving (clumps are shallow-rooted and will develop woody bases rather quickly). Divide clumps in spring every 3-4 years.

Noteworthy Characteristics

The most notable feature of Heuchera micrantha ‘Palace Purple’ is its rich, purple-burgundy leaves with metallic undersides. The foliage provides year-round interest, especially during the fall and winter months when the color deepens. Coral Bells ‘Palace Purple’ cultivar is a clump-forming perennial which features a basal mound of maple-or ivy-like leaves (3-5″ wide) which are an attractive deep purple above and beet-red beneath. Foliage color may fade to a bronze-green in hot summers. It produces delicate, small, bell-shaped flowers on tall spikes. Coral Bells ‘Palace Purple’ flowers are typically white or pale pink and appear in late spring or early summer. 1991 Perennial Plant of the Year.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Garden Uses

Attractive foliage and airy flower panicles provide color and contrast to the rock garden, perennial border, open woodland garden or shade garden. Good edging plant. Mass to form an attractive ground cover.