Heuchera 'Forever Purple' is a compact perennial known for its deep purple foliage and dense rounded habit. Its attractive leaves provide strong color contrast in shaded gardens, and airy spikes of tiny pink flowers rise above the foliage in late spring to early summer drawing pollinators. This cultivar thrives in partial shade and adds year round interest with minimal maintenance.
Height & Spread: 6 - 10 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil
Deer Resistance: Generally resistant due to slightly bitter foliage
Native Status
Heuchera 'Forever Purple' is a hybrid cultivar derived from North American Heuchera species. While not a naturally occurring native, it retains hardiness and adaptability characteristic of its parent species.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Painted Ladies and Eastern Tiger Swallowtails are drawn to its delicate pink flowers for nectar.
Bees
- Supports native bumblebees, honeybees, and sweat bees which assist with pollination in shaded garden areas.
Beneficial Insects
- Foliage and flower clusters provide habitat for predatory insects such as lady beetles and lacewings that help control aphids and other garden pests.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow full leaf coverage and healthy air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, foundation plantings, and container plantings where rich foliage color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla (Jack Frost) - Silvery foliage and small blue flowers pair beautifully with deep purple leaves.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Forms a low carpet beneath Heuchera, enhancing layered texture and seasonal interest.
- Ferns (Japanese Painted Fern) - Provides delicate texture and silvery green contrast in shaded areas.
- Astilbe (Fanal) - Feathery pink flower plumes complement Heuchera's foliage while adding vertical interest.
- Hosta 'Patriot' - Variegated leaves create a striking contrast against dark purple Heuchera foliage.