Heuchera Palace Purple, also known as Coral Bells, is a herbaceous perennial that is native to North America. It is a popular plant among gardeners in New Zealand due to its attractive foliage and adaptability to a range of growing conditions. It was first introduced to the horticultural trade in 1984. It is a member of the Saxifragaceae family and is a hybrid of Heuchera micrantha and Heuchera villosa. The plant grows to a height of 30cm and produces a basal rosette of rounded, lobed leaves that are a deep, rich purple colour. In the summer months, it produces tall stems that bear small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, or green.
 
Care
Heuchera Palace Purple is a hardy plant that can be grown in a range of conditions. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be grown in partial shade to protect its leaves from the harsh sun. However, it can also tolerate full sun if the soil is kept consistently moist.
 
Watering and Feeding
It requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. The plant can be fed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
 
Overwintering
Heuchera Palace Purple is a hardy plant that can withstand cold temperatures. However, it may benefit from a layer of mulch in the winter months to protect its roots from frost damage.
 
Pruning
Heuchera Palace Purple does not require regular pruning. However, dead or damaged leaves and flowers should be removed to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of disease.
 
Propagation
Heuchera Palace Purple can be propagated by division in the spring or autumn. The plant can also be propagated by cuttings or seed.
 
Diseases and Pests
Heuchera Palace Purple is prone to a number of diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, and crown rot. It may also be affected by slugs, snails, and aphids. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate fungicides and insecticides can help to prevent the spread of disease and protect the plant from pests.
 
Substitutes and Companion Plants
Heuchera Palace Purple can be paired with a range of other plants to create a colourful and interesting garden display. Some popular companion plants include Astilbe, Hosta, and ferns. If you are looking for a substitute for Heuchera Palace Purple, you may consider other Heuchera varieties such as Heuchera ‘Lime Marmalade’ or Heuchera 'Berry Smoothie'.
 
In conclusion, Heuchera Palace Purple is a versatile and attractive plant that is well-suited to New Zealand gardens. With the right care and attention, it can provide years of colorful foliage and delicate blooms. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice, Heuchera Palace Purple is a must-have for any garden.