Heuchera 'Blackout' Coral Bells

Heuchera 'Blackout' is a compact, evergreen perennial (in warm climates) that grows to a mature height of 8 to 12 inches and spreads 16 inches wide, providing visual interest for three seasons or even year-round. Known for its striking foliage, 'Blackout' forms a dense rosette of near-black, glossy leaves with a subtle wave, held nearly horizontal on dark purple stems. In midsummer, slender 10-inch scapes rise above the foliage, bearing delicate, creamy white, bell-shaped flowers that seem to float, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds and adding a soft touch to floral arrangements.

This Heuchera hybrid, commonly called coral bells, heuchera, or alumroot, features a low, mounded growth habit with a moderate to vigorous growth rate, especially notable for a dark-foliaged variety. 'Blackout' performs well in containers or garden beds and looks especially striking when massed or grouped. It also makes an excellent edging plant along paths or walkways, complementing companion plants like ferns, astilbe, geranium, hakonechloa, and hosta.

Cold hardy and virtually carefree, 'Blackout' heuchera thrives in sunny to partially shaded locations with well-drained, medium moist soil and a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Though tolerant of some drought once established, it prefers consistent moisture to keep its foliage lush, particularly in full sun or hot climates where afternoon shade is beneficial. In spring, fertilize and remove dead leaves, and apply a fall mulch to moderate soil temperatures and prevent winter heaving. This deer resistant plant is easy to grow and low maintenance, making it a versatile addition to any garden.