How to Grow Burgundy Cascade Heuchera
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Burgundy Cascade Heuchera
Heuchera × 'Burgundy Cascade'
flowerBurgundy Cascade is a striking coral bells cultivar prized for its deep burgundy to purple foliage that cascades elegantly from mounding plants. Delicate pink flowers bloom on tall spires in late spring to early summer, providing excellent contrast to the dark foliage. This versatile perennial serves as both a colorful foliage plant and an attractive flowering specimen.
When should you plant Burgundy Cascade Heuchera in your zone?
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Example Burgundy Cascade Heuchera timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Burgundy Cascade Heuchera
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Burgundy Cascade Heuchera blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives best in zones 4-8; hardy but may struggle in extreme heat of zone 9
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Get my Burgundy Cascade Heuchera timeline →Growth Stages
Vegetative Growth
Late spring through early summer (6-10 weeks)Foliage mounds expand, deepening in burgundy color; plant develops stronger root system
Remove any dead or damaged leaves. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season. Monitor for slugs and snails
Flowering
Late spring to early summer (4-6 weeks), typically May-June in most zonesTall spires of delicate pink to coral flowers emerge from foliage mounds, creating striking color contrast
Flowers last 4-6 weeks; deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage extended blooming. Continue regular watering
Post-Bloom Maintenance
Summer through early fall (8-12 weeks)Flowers fade; foliage remains ornamental throughout summer and into fall; plants may rest in extreme heat
Cut back spent flower stems. Reduce fertilizer. Provide afternoon shade and consistent moisture in zones 8+. Foliage may turn even darker with cooler fall temperatures
Winter Dormancy
Late fall through early spring (3-4 months)Foliage persists but growth slows significantly; evergreen leaves remain as garden feature
Reduce watering; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid winter fertilization. Mulch lightly if temperatures drop below -10°F. Remove fallen debris to prevent crown rot
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick in early morning or evening; apply copper tape around planting areas; use beer traps; encourage beneficial ground beetles; avoid overwatering which creates moist conditions they favor
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Remove affected leaves promptly; spray with neem oil if severe; encourage natural predators like parasitic wasps
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Adult weevils notch leaf edges; apply insecticidal soap for severe infestations; maintain good air circulation to reduce humidity
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicidal spray if symptoms appear; remove affected leaves
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Improve drainage; ensure crown is not buried or mulched; avoid waterlogging; use well-draining soil amendments; remove and destroy severely affected plants
Uses
Edible Flowers for Garnish
CulinaryThe delicate pink flower spikes are edible and add visual interest and subtle flavor to salads, desserts, and cocktails. Flowers have a mild, slightly sweet taste and are entirely non-toxic. [source]
Cut Flower and Foliage Arrangements
HouseholdBurgundy Cascade provides striking deep-colored foliage for fresh or dried floral designs, and the pink flowers are elegant in mixed bouquets. The long-lasting stems and dramatic color make it valuable for florists and home arranging. [source]
Dried Foliage and Flowers
CraftBoth leaves and flower spikes dry well and retain color beautifully for dried arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. Hang bundles upside-down in a cool, dark location for 2-3 weeks to dry completely. [source]
Ornamental Landscape Focal Point
HouseholdThe burgundy cascading foliage provides year-round color in shade gardens, container plantings, and mixed borders. Works exceptionally well as a colorful groundcover or specimen plant that bridges seasonal interest. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe pink flower spires attract hummingbirds, bees, and other beneficial insects to the garden during late spring and early summer. Provides important early-season nectar source and habitat structure. [source]
Harvest Tips
Burgundy Cascade is grown primarily for foliage and flowers rather than harvest. Cut flower spikes for fresh arrangements once fully open; stems last 1-2 weeks in water. Harvest foliage year-round for arrangements, cutting outer stems 1-2 inches above soil line. Divide plants every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate and maintain vigor; dig entire clump and separate crowns, replanting at surface level
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Burgundy Cascade is part of the extensive Heuchera × brizoides hybrid group, which resulted from crosses between North American native species; the breeding program has produced hundreds of cultivars since the 1950s
- 🌱 The deep burgundy foliage color intensifies in cooler weather and partial shade, while warmer temperatures and more sun exposure may lighten the color to burgundy-bronze
- 🌱 Heuchera is native to North America and was named by Carl Linnaeus after German botanist Johannes Heinrich von Heucher; Native Americans used certain Heuchera species medicinally and as a dye source
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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