Heuchera ‘Raspberry Regal’, also known as coral bells, is a popular perennial plant. Gardeners value this variety for its striking appearance, adding visual interest to landscapes. Its adaptable nature and vibrant hues make it a favored choice for garden enhancement.
Distinctive Features of Heuchera Raspberry Regal
Heuchera ‘Raspberry Regal’ exhibits captivating foliage. Its lobed leaves are primarily dark green, sometimes subtly mottled or flushed with silver. The plant forms a compact basal mound, typically reaching a height of 8-12 inches and spreading up to 16 inches wide. This semi-evergreen to evergreen perennial provides consistent color throughout much of the year, depending on the climate.
Beyond its foliage, slender, wiry, dark purple stems rise significantly above the leaf mound. These stems bear open panicles of raspberry-red or reddish-pink flowers, appearing from late spring to early summer (June-July). These showy, bell-shaped blooms can reach heights of 24-30 inches, adding a vertical element to the plant’s overall presentation.
Optimal Planting and Growing Environment
Heuchera ‘Raspberry Regal’ thrives in specific conditions that support its vibrant growth and overall health. These plants perform best in organically rich, humusy soil that maintains consistent moisture yet drains well. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (5.5-6.5) is suitable. Amending heavy clay soils with organic materials like compost or chopped leaves can improve drainage.
Regarding light exposure, ‘Raspberry Regal’ prefers partial shade, particularly in regions with warmer climates where afternoon sun can scorch its leaves. In northern climates, some varieties may tolerate full sun, but consistent moisture is essential to prevent foliage decline. Planting in a location that receives morning sun or dappled light throughout the day is often ideal. Proper spacing, allowing for adequate air circulation, is also important during planting.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Consistent moisture is important for Heuchera ‘Raspberry Regal’, particularly when grown in sunnier locations. Watering once a week in spring and summer, and every two weeks in fall and winter, helps maintain the necessary soil moisture without leading to waterlogging. It is best to water slowly and deeply in the morning, which allows the soil to absorb moisture effectively and helps prevent fungal issues.
Heucheras are light feeders, but they do benefit from some fertilization. An annual application of a half-inch layer of aged compost around the plant in spring can provide sufficient nutrients. Alternatively, a light dose of a slow-release or mild organic fertilizer can be applied in spring, following product instructions. Pruning involves removing spent flower stalks to encourage additional blooms and trimming any yellowing, diseased, or dead foliage in late winter or early spring to maintain a tidy appearance and promote new growth.
Addressing Common Challenges
Leaf scorch (yellow or brown leaf edges) often results from excessive sun exposure, especially in warmer climates. Moving the plant to a shadier location or providing afternoon shade alleviates this problem. Root rot (mushy roots or wilting plants despite adequate watering) indicates poor drainage or overwatering. Ensuring well-draining soil and avoiding excessive watering prevents this.
Vine weevils can damage Heuchera; larvae feed on roots, causing wilting and plant decline. Adult vine weevils create notches in leaves, though this is less damaging. Slugs and foliar nematodes are also pests; nematodes cause yellow-brown lesions on leaves. Diseases like powdery mildew (white powdery substance) and rust (orange-brown pustules on leaf undersides) can occur. Good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and prompt removal of affected leaves help manage these diseases.
Winter Preparation and Long-Term Health
In colder zones, apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, such as compost or dry leaves, after the first frost. This helps insulate the roots and prevent frost heaving, protecting the crown and roots from fluctuating winter temperatures.
While the foliage of ‘Raspberry Regal’ is generally evergreen in mild winter climates, it may die back in chillier regions. This is a natural response, and the plant typically rebounds in spring. To promote long-term health and maintain vigor, dividing mature clumps every three to four years in the spring helps rejuvenate the plant.