Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. - A Plant with Many Common Names
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. is a herbaceous plant species from the Saxifrage family. Its many common names include Coral Bells, Alum Root, Red Coral Bells, and Sangria, among others. This plant is native to the Western United States and can be found growing in mountainous areas, along streams, and on rocky slopes.
Appearance and Characteristics
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. is a clump-forming perennial that reaches a height of up to 18 inches and a spread of up to 12 inches. Its leaves are evergreen, heart-shaped, and alternate on slender petioles. The foliage color ranges from green to bronze, purple, or silver, depending on the variety. The plant produces tall hairy stems, topped with panicles of small bell-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are typically red, pink, or white and attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies to the garden.
Uses and Benefits
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. has many uses and benefits. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, borders, and rock gardens, where its bright foliage and colorful flowers add interest and texture to the landscape. The plant is also used in traditional medicine as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. The roots and leaves are high in tannins and have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sore throats, digestive issues, and skin irritations. Moreover, some Native American tribes utilized the plant in their cultural ceremonies.
Overall, Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. is a versatile and attractive plant species that is enjoyed by gardeners and herbalists alike. Its stunning appearance, easy care, and beneficial properties make it a popular choice in many settings.
Growth Conditions for Heuchera sanguinea Engelm.
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It is commonly known as Coral Bells and grows best in specific growth conditions.
Light Requirements
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. requires partial to full shade to grow well. It is best to plant them in areas with filtered light or high shade. Direct sunlight exposure may result in leaf scorch and stress.
Temperature Requirements
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. prefers cool temperatures and can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–8. The plant has a moderate tolerance to heat, but extreme heat can cause excessive evaporation and stress the plant.
Soil Requirements
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should have organic matter to retain moisture and provide nutrients. The plant thrives in soils that are moist but not soggy and can withstand periods of drought.
In conclusion, Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. requires partial to full shade, cool temperatures, and well-drained soil with organic matter to grow and thrive.
Cultivation
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm., also known as coral bells, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is best grown in temperate areas. It can be propagated from seed or by dividing the rootball in spring or autumn. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH and needs partial to full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
Watering Needs
This plant requires adequate moisture during its active growth period, which is usually in the spring and summer months. It's important to water the plant evenly and not let it dry out completely. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. It's recommended to reduce watering during the winter when growth slows down.
Fertilization
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. doesn't have high nutrient requirements, but periodic application of fertilizer can help improve plant health and promote better flowering. A balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can be added to the soil in the spring before new growth appears. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging to avoid overfertilization, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning this plant is a simple process that involves removing spent flowers and damaged or diseased foliage. This should be done as soon as possible to avoid the spread of diseases and to encourage more blooms. It's recommended to cut back the flower stems to their base after they have finished flowering. In the autumn, the plant can be cut back to the ground to tidy up and promote new growth in the spring.
Propagation of Heuchera sanguinea Engelm.
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm., commonly known as Coral Bells, can be propagated through four methods: seed propagation, division, leaf and stem cutting, and tissue culture.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest way to grow Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. Collect the seeds in late summer and sow them in spring in a well-draining soil mix with good water retention properties. The recommended temperature for seed germination is between 60°F to 70°F. Keep the soil moist and steadily warm, but not too hot, as the seeds can easily dry out or rot. Germination typically occurs after two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown big enough, transplant them to their final location.
Division
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. can be readily propagated through division. Dig up the plant when it is mature, and carefully separate the rhizomes. Each rhizome should have at least one healthy growing point. Replant the divided clumps in a well-draining soil mix, and water the soil well. Set them in partial shade for a few days, giving them sufficient time to acclimate before transferring them to their permanent positions.
Leaf and Stem Cuttings
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. can be propagated through stem and leaf cuttings. Use a clean, sharp tool to cut off the stems or leaves from healthy plants. Place them in potting soil mix, and keep them in a warm, moist environment that is lightly shaded. The budding parts of the plant should be covered with light mulch to retain a moist environment. Cuttings typically sprout roots within six weeks and can be transferred to a permanent pot or garden bed after being rooted.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is another propagation method to grow Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. In this technique, plant cells are dissected to develop new plants that have characteristics identical to the parent plant. This technique is widely used in commercial plant nurseries to produce Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. varieties with desired traits. Though it may require expert knowledge of plant tissue culture techniques, it can be an efficient method to obtain disease-free plants and, at times, produce a substantial number of plants from a single bud.
Disease Management
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance to appear on the foliage of the plant. This disease can be managed by keeping the plant's foliage dry, providing good airflow, and removing any infected leaves that are found.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that can cause the plant's crown to rot. This disease can be managed by ensuring the plant is grown in well-draining soil and not overwatering.
Botrytis Blight
Botrytis blight, also known as gray mold, is a fungal disease that can cause the plant's foliage to turn brown and die. This disease can be managed by pruning any dead or infected foliage, providing good airflow, and avoiding overhead watering.
Pest Management
Heuchera sanguinea Engelm. is also susceptible to various pests. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that can cause the plant's foliage to turn yellow and wilt. This pest can be managed by removing any infested leaves, washing the plant with a strong jet of water, and introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause the plant's foliage to become discolored and covered in webs. This pest can be managed by washing the plant with a strong jet of water, keeping the plant's foliage moist, and introducing beneficial insects such as predatory mites.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are mollusks that can eat the plant's foliage and leave behind slime trails. These pests can be managed by handpicking them off the plant, creating physical barriers, such as copper tape around the plant, and introducing beneficial insects such as ground beetles or nematodes.
