Autumn Leaves Heuchera

Heuchera 'Autumn Leaves'

Family: Coral Bells

Type: Perennial

Other Common Name: Coralbells, Alumroot

Autumn Leaves Heuchera, scientifically known as Heuchera ‘Autumn Leaves’, is a captivating perennial known for its dynamic foliage. This plant is celebrated for the changing colors of its leaves, resembling the transformation of autumn leaves.

In spring, the leaves start out red, turn taupe in summer, and then develop into a rich ruby red in fall. This ever-changing display makes it a unique addition to any garden.

Not only is Autumn Leaves Heuchera visually stunning, but it’s also remarkably hardy and low-maintenance. It thrives in a variety of climates and can tolerate both heat and cold.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 4a-9b

Moisture Preference: Average to moist

Sun Needs: Partial shade to shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Medium

Average Height (feet): 1.5

Average Spread (feet): 1.5

Average Life Span (years): 10

Form: Over mound

Ornamental

Flower Color: White

Flower Shape: Bell

Bloom Season: In mid summer

Foliage Color: Red

Foliage Shape: Lobed

Landscaping Your Yard With Autumn Leaves Heuchera

Incorporating Autumn Leaves Heuchera into your landscape adds year-round interest. Its colorful foliage provides a beautiful backdrop or accent in garden beds and borders.

This Heuchera is perfect for woodland gardens, shade gardens, or as an underplanting for taller shrubs. Its compact size makes it suitable for both ground cover and container gardening.

Plant Autumn Leaves Heuchera in groups for a stunning display of color. It pairs beautifully with both dark and light foliage plants, creating a visually appealing contrast.

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Suitable Garden Styles

Woodland Garden

In a woodland garden, Autumn Leaves Heuchera complements the natural, shaded environment. Its foliage mimics the forest floor's colorful carpet, especially in fall.

Modern Garden

In modern landscapes, this Heuchera adds a splash of color and organic texture. Its distinct foliage contrasts nicely with contemporary hardscaping and minimalist designs.

Cottage Garden

Autumn Leaves Heuchera fits seamlessly into the eclectic and informal style of cottage gardens. Its vibrant leaves enhance the garden's whimsical and charming character.

Autumn Leaves Heuchera Landscaping Ideas

Use as a border along shaded walkways. Its changing leaf colors mark the seasons beautifully along garden paths.

Pair with spring bulbs. As the bulbs fade, the Heuchera foliage grows in, maintaining garden interest.

Combine with evergreen plants in containers. The contrast between the evergreen foliage and the dynamic colors of Autumn Leaves Heuchera creates an attractive display.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Autumn Leaves Heuchera's foliage emerges with a vibrant red hue, signaling the start of the growing season.

Summer

During summer, the leaves transition to a taupe color, providing a subtle yet elegant appearance in the garden.

Fall

In fall, the foliage transforms into a deep ruby red, echoing the traditional colors of autumn and adding warmth to the garden landscape.

Winter

In winter, the plant may retain some of its foliage in milder climates, offering color and interest even in the colder months.

Companion Plants

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Patriot Hosta

Hosta 'Patriot'

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Japanese Painted Fern

Athyrium Nippocum 'Pictum'

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Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Autumn Leaves Heuchera performs best in part shade to full shade. It is ideal for planting under trees, on the north side of buildings, or in any garden area that receives filtered light.

Light

While it can tolerate some morning sun, Autumn Leaves Heuchera prefers shaded conditions. Too much direct sunlight can fade its vibrant leaf colors and stress the plant.

Soil

Well-drained, fertile soil is essential for Autumn Leaves Heuchera. It thrives in soil that's rich in organic matter and maintains a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Spacing

Space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart. This spacing allows each plant to grow and spread naturally, creating a full, lush appearance in the garden.

When to Plant

The best time to plant Autumn Leaves Heuchera is in the spring or early fall. Cooler weather during these seasons supports root development without the stress of extreme temperatures.

How to Plant

Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, water well, and apply a layer of mulch to help maintain soil moisture.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first growing season. Once established, Autumn Leaves Heuchera is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of the plant’s vibrant colors.

Pruning

Remove any damaged or faded leaves throughout the season to keep the plant looking its best. Pruning is minimal for Autumn Leaves Heuchera.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In spring, clear any debris from around the plant, fertilize, and ensure adequate watering as new growth begins.

Summer Care

During summer, monitor soil moisture and water during extended dry periods. Protect the plant from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Fall Care

In fall, reduce watering as the plant begins to go dormant. This is a good time to add a layer of mulch for winter protection.

Winter Care

Autumn Leaves Heuchera is relatively low-maintenance in winter. In colder regions, ensure it's well-mulched to protect the root system.

Plant Alternatives

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Forever Red Coral Bells

Heuchera 'Forever Red'

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Wild Rose Coral Bells

Heuchera Primo 'Wild Rose'

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Georgia Peach Coral Bells

Heuchera 'Georgia Peach'

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FAQ

How Long Does the Color Last on Autumn Leaves Heuchera?

The dynamic color change in the foliage of Autumn Leaves Heuchera lasts throughout the growing season, with different hues from spring to fall.

Is Autumn Leaves Heuchera Deer Resistant?

Yes, Autumn Leaves Heuchera is generally considered deer-resistant, making it a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.

Can Autumn Leaves Heuchera Be Divided?

Yes, dividing Autumn Leaves Heuchera every 3-4 years helps rejuvenate the plant and maintain its vigor. The best time to divide is in the early spring.

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