Marmalade Coral Bells

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

10-12 Feet

Mature Spread

16-18 Inches

Growing Zones

4 to 9

Turn up the warmth in beds, borders, and containers with Marmalade Coral Bells. Ruffled leaves swirl through shades of amber, caramel, and copper, with rosy undersides that glow in morning or evening light. The tidy mounds add four-season color in many climates, and airy flower sprays in late spring to summer bring in hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators. It’s an easy, compact perennial that pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, and deep purple heucheras for contrast.

Marmalade thrives in well-drained soil and bright, indirect light to part sun. In cooler regions it can handle more direct sun; in hotter climates, afternoon shade keeps foliage vibrant and prevents scorch. Water to keep the soil evenly moist while establishing, then switch to moderate, consistent moisture—never soggy. A thin layer of mulch helps regulate temperature and moisture and protects crowns from winter heaving. In containers, choose a pot with drainage and a high-quality potting mix; water a bit more frequently than in-ground plantings.

After the first season, care is simple. Trim away tired leaves in early spring to make room for fresh growth, and remove spent flower stalks after bloom for a tidy look. A light spring feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer is plenty. In cold zones, leave some foliage through winter for crown protection and refresh in spring.

Quick Specs

• Light: part shade to part sun; more sun in cool climates, afternoon shade where summers are hot

• Size: foliage mound about 10–12 inches tall, 16–18 inches wide; flower stems taller in bloom

• Bloom: late spring to summer; small white flowers on slender red stems

• Soil: rich, well-drained; neutral to slightly acidic

• Water: moderate, keep evenly moist (not waterlogged)

• Habit: compact, mounding; semi-evergreen in mild winters

• Wildlife: blooms attract pollinators; generally deer and rabbit resistant

• Uses: borders, edging, woodland gardens, containers, color echo with golds, purples, and blues

FAQs

Where does Marmalade Heuchera grow best?

Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade, or bright dappled light all day. In cooler regions, it tolerates more sun; in hot-summer areas, protect it from harsh afternoon rays to keep the foliage rich and glossy.

How should I water and fertilize?

Keep soil evenly moist while plants establish, then water when the top inch feels dry. Avoid soggy soil to prevent crown rot. A light application of slow-release fertilizer each spring is enough; overfeeding can reduce color intensity.

Will it work in containers?

Yes. Use a pot with drainage and a premium potting mix. Container plants dry out faster, so check moisture more often, especially in summer. Pair with shade-tolerant companions for a layered look.

How do I care for it in winter?

In cold climates, apply a thin mulch after the ground freezes to reduce frost heaving. Leave some foliage as insulation and clean up in early spring by removing winter-worn leaves.

Does it attract pollinators or resist pests?

The dainty summer blooms draw hummingbirds and small pollinators, while the foliage is typically unappealing to deer and rabbits. Good drainage and moderate watering help prevent common issues like crown rot.