Heuchera 'Paris'

Heuchera 'Paris': Rose-Pink Bells, Encore After Encore

'Paris' is very chic and very aware of it. Mint-green leaves marbled in silver, topped with deep rose-pink bells that keep coming in waves. THE HUMMINGBIRDS BOOKED A ROMANTIC WEEKEND.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Heuchera hybrid
• Common Name: Coral Bells
• Height: 25 cm (10 in) in leaf; flower stems reach about 35 cm (14 in)
• Spread: 36 cm (14 in)
• Flowers: Large, deep rose-pink bells in generous sprays
• Bloom Time: Late spring through late summer, with repeat flushes (May to August)
• Foliage: Mint-green leaves with silver marbling and darker veins. Evergreen in mild winters.
• Features: Long-blooming, salt tolerant
• Plant Patent: USPP 18,881

Where to Plant: Its small size suits the front of a border, a rock garden or a mixed container. It tolerates salt, so it's a sensible pick for beds near a driveway or sidewalk, and the flowers work in small cut arrangements.

Companion Plants: Hosta 'Guacamole' grows to 60 cm behind this low coral bells, and its large leaves make the small rose flowers look even finer. Astilbe 'Heart and Soul' picks up the same pink theme with feathery plumes from July to September, rising to 75 cm. In spring, Mertensia virginica adds blue bells in April and May before the heuchera gets into full flower. The mix of rounded leaves, plumes and spring bells keeps this shade bed interesting for months.

Plant Care: Plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil, keeping the crown level with the soil. Heuchera rots in standing water, so loosen clay with compost before planting. Water regularly through the first season and during dry spells after that. Shade from hot afternoon sun keeps the leaves from scorching. Snip spent flower stems at the base to encourage more blooms. Trim tattered leaves in early spring. Divide every two or three years in spring to keep it vigorous.

History: 'Paris' is a Terra Nova Nurseries introduction from Oregon, released in 2007 as part of a group of heuchera named after cities and bred to carry flowers well above the usual heuchera standard. It is now sold in the United States as a Proven Winners® selection.

Final Thoughts: Plant it along the front walk and let it bloom while you sip something fancy. Salt and deer don't faze it. NO PASSPORT, ALL ROMANCE.