Heuchera 'Plum Crazy' is a striking coral bells cultivar with bold purple foliage and ruffled lobed leaves that shimmer with silvery overtones. The color intensifies in cooler temperatures offering multi season appeal. Small pinkish white flower spikes emerge in early summer rising above the foliage on slender stems. This compact perennial adds texture and rich color contrast to shaded or partially shaded garden beds.
Height & Spread: 10 - 12 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Part shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained soil rich in organic content
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture without sogginess
Deer Resistance: Generally deer resistant due to tough, aromatic foliage
Native Status
Heuchera 'Plum Crazy' is a cultivar derived from species native to North America. While not wild collected, it inherits adaptability and shade tolerance from its native lineage.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- The nectar rich blooms attract small native bees such as sweat bees and mining bees that forage in early summer.
Butterflies
- Visited by smaller butterflies including Spring Azure and Pearl Crescent for nectar.
Beneficial Insects
- Hoverflies and parasitic wasps visit the blooms and contribute to natural pest management.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow for mature clump expansion and airflow between foliage mounds.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded borders, woodland edges, containers, or as underplanting for shrubs and larger perennials.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Silvery foliage and blue flowers brighten shady areas and contrast beautifully with purple tones.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Offers similar cultural preferences and frothy white blooms that pair well with coral bells.
- Carex pensylvanica - Native sedge with fine grassy texture that gently weaves through bold Heuchera foliage.
- Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Solomons Seal) - Arching stems and creamy edged leaves echo and soften bold Heuchera mounds.
- Asarum canadense (Wild Ginger) - Heart shaped leaves form a lush green carpet around the base of Heuchera clumps.