Heuchera 'Fire Chief' is a vibrant coral bells cultivar featuring striking deep red foliage that retains its color throughout the season. Its rounded leaves form a compact mound while airy stems rise above with delicate pink flowers that attract pollinators. This shade tolerant perennial adds bold color and texture to borders, woodland gardens, and containers.
Height & Spread: 6 - 10 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring through midsummer
Light Requirements: Partial shade to full shade
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, humus rich soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil
Deer Resistance: Generally resistant due to slightly bitter foliage
Native Status
This hybrid Heuchera was developed from North American woodland species. While not a naturally occurring native, it maintains strong adaptability and vigor in temperate shade gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Eastern Tiger Swallowtails and Monarchs are attracted to the airy pink flower spikes for nectar, adding movement and life to shaded areas.
Bees
- Native bumblebees and honeybees frequently visit the blooms, supporting early season pollination for nearby plants.
Beneficial Predatory Insects
- Dense foliage provides shelter for ladybugs and lacewings, which help control aphid populations in garden beds.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow full leaf development and airflow around plants.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and containers where bold foliage and seasonal color contrast are desired.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla (Siberian Bugloss) - Silvery heart shaped leaves with blue flowers complement the bold Heuchera tones.
- Tiarella cordifolia (Foamflower) - Low growing groundcover enhances layered textures beneath the Heuchera mound.
- Ferns (Japanese Painted Fern) - Lacy silver fronds contrast beautifully with the vibrant red leaves.
- Astilbe (False Goats Beard) - Feathery flower plumes add vertical interest and soft texture beside low mounded foliage.
- Hosta (Plantain Lily) - Broad leaves provide a contrasting backdrop that highlights the deep red foliage of Heuchera.