Heuchera 'Mega Caramel' is a bold perennial with large caramel colored foliage that develops bronze undertones as the season progresses. Its rounded ruffled leaves form a dense mound while airy spikes of pale pink flowers rise in late spring, attracting pollinators and adding subtle contrast. This cultivar thrives in partial shade and adds striking color to shaded borders, woodland gardens, and container plantings.
Height & Spread: 10 - 14 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, rich loam
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided due to slightly bitter foliage
Native Status
Heuchera 'Mega Caramel' is a hybrid derived from North American coral bells species. While not naturally occurring in the wild, it shares the adaptability and ornamental resilience of its native parent species.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Painted Ladies and Monarchs visit the pale pink flowers for nectar in late spring.
Bees
- Native bumblebees, sweat bees, and honeybees are frequent visitors, supporting pollination in shaded areas.
Beneficial Predatory Insects
- Attracts lady beetles and lacewings which help control aphids and other common shade garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to ensure proper leaf spread and healthy airflow for optimal growth.
Landscape Placement:
- Perfect for shaded borders, woodland gardens, mass plantings, and container plantings where bold foliage color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla (Jack Frost) - Silvery veined leaves brighten shaded areas and pair well with warm Heuchera tones.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Running Foamflower) - Low groundcover beneath Heuchera enhances layered texture and seasonal interest.
- Hosta 'Empress Wu' - Large dark green leaves create striking contrast against caramel toned Heuchera foliage.
- Astilbe (Fanal) - Feathery flower plumes add vertical interest and complement rounded foliage.
- Ferns (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum') - Silver green fronds offer texture contrast and seasonal layering in shade gardens.