Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie'

'Berry Smoothie", also known as Coral Bells, is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial in the Saxifragaceae family and a patented cultivar of  H. villosa and H. americana. 'Berry Smoothie' is protected under U. S. Plant Patent PP#21,871, awarded April 12, 2011.

Plant in organically rich, humusy, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade and do not cover the crown. Because the parentage of hybrids often determines the best culture, including optimum sun exposure, a hybrid of H. villosa and H. americana, such as 'Berry Smoothie', does best in shady locations. If grown in full sun, provide consistent moisture to ensure that the soil does not dry out. If you site the plant in a cooler climate, you can apply a winter compost mulch after the ground freezes to prevent root heaving. Divide clumps in spring every 3-4 years.

'Berry Smoothie' with white spring blossoms and rose-pink leaves that darken to purple-pink and provide year-round interest in a shady part of the landscape. Foliage is essentially evergreen in warm winter climates. The flowers are small and white and sit atop 2-foot-high stems. You can remove the stems of faded flowers to encourage additional bloom.

Use in borders or groups of woodland, winter and shady gardens. The showy evergreen leaves add 4 seasons of interest.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:  Frost heaving of roots can occur when winter temperatures fluctuate widely. Potential diseases include powdery mildew, rust, and bacterial leaf spot. Potential insect pests include weevils and foliar nematodes.

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