Heuchera micrantha commonly known as Palace Purple
This is a seed-grown strain, rather than clonal cuttings, so the plants vary wildly. Growing them in light shade seems to protect the foliage from burn, and on some of the superior forms, the flowers make a light, airy effect that is highly appealing.
Palace Purple does not seem as prone to develop woody stems that need to be divided as frequently as some of the other heuchera types, although this varies widely by plant.
This lovely, often purple foliaged plant grows to 12-18 in.. When planting space 24-36 in. Coral Bells are quite hardy, and should thrive in USDA zone 3a – 8b. Coral Bells prefer to be in a shady to partial sunny spot. The blooms that spring up on tall stalks are white or off white.
Coral Bells bloom from late spring to mid Fall, and blooms repeatedly. The folliage is deciduous and should not be covered with mulch in the winter or it may rot. Heuchera has average water needs and should not be over watered.
Propagation can be achived by collecting the seeds from the dried blooms. Sow the seeds indoors before the last frost and plant out in the early spring after the last frost has passed.
The Cardinal flower is a striking red beauty that is named after the bright robes worn by Roman Catholic cardinals. The brilliant tubular flowers extend along an erect stalk and last for weeks. Leaves are toothed, dark green, and an attractive foil for the flowers. Perfect for moist sites, along the edges of a stream, or where downspouts drain into the soil. It’s particularly attractive when planted at the edge of a woodland garden.
