How to Grow Coral Bells 'Obsidian'
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Coral Bells 'Obsidian'
Heuchera 'Obsidian'
flowerCoral Bells 'Obsidian' is a striking foliage plant prized for its deep burgundy-black leaves that maintain their rich color throughout the season. Delicate pink to coral-colored flowers appear on thin stems above the mounded foliage in late spring and early summer. This cultivar is a popular choice for adding dramatic color contrast to garden beds and containers.
When should you plant Coral Bells 'Obsidian' in your zone?
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Example Coral Bells 'Obsidian' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Coral Bells 'Obsidian'
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 Coral Bells 'Obsidian' blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Coral Bells 'Obsidian' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, with best performance in zones 5-8
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Foliage Development
3-4 monthsMounded clump of deep burgundy-black leaves expands, creating dense ground cover. Foliage becomes increasingly vibrant and darker.
Remove any damaged or diseased leaves. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer. Monitor for spider mites in dry conditions. Deadhead spent flowers if desired.
Flowering
4-8 weeksDelicate panicles of small coral to pink flowers emerge on slender reddish stems above the foliage, creating an airy, contrasting display
Flowers typically appear May-July. Deadheading encourages longer blooming but is optional. Continue regular watering and avoid overhead irrigation.
Post-Bloom
Through winter dormancyFlowers fade and seed heads dry. Foliage remains dark and ornamental throughout fall and winter in most zones.
Remove spent flower stems or leave for winter interest. In zone 3-4, apply 2-3 inches of mulch after first hard frost. Reduce watering as temperatures cool.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity and reduce dry conditions. Spray with water or neem oil. In severe cases, use miticide. Avoid sulfur sprays on heuchera.
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Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide if necessary. Remove affected leaves.
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Ensure excellent drainage. Avoid waterlogging. Do not bury the crown. Remove and discard severely affected plants.
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Remove debris and mulch that provides hiding places. Use slug traps with beer or yeast. Apply diatomaceous earth around base.
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Apply beneficial nematodes to soil. Hand-pick adults at night. Remove infested plants if damage is severe.
Uses
Dramatic Foliage Contrast
OrnamentalThe deep burgundy-black leaves provide striking color contrast in shade gardens, functioning as a dark focal point among lighter-colored plants. Excellent for creating visual interest in borders and containers year-round. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdThe delicate coral-pink flower stems are lovely additions to small floral arrangements and can be used to create unique spring bouquets with their airy texture. [source]
Container and Landscape Design
HouseholdExcellent for mixed containers, rock gardens, and woodland gardens where its dark coloring and structural form add depth and sophistication to garden design. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe delicate flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects, providing early-season nectar and pollen when few other plants are flowering. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalIn traditional Native American medicine, Heuchera species have been used for astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, though 'Obsidian' is primarily grown ornamentally in modern gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Coral Bells 'Obsidian' is primarily grown for ornamental foliage, not harvesting. Flowers can be cut for small arrangements when they appear in late spring or early summer. Cut stems above where leaves emerge. Remove spent flower stems anytime to maintain appearance and redirect energy to foliage production.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 'Obsidian' is named for its resemblance to the dark volcanic glass obsidian, which was valued by Native Americans for tools and ornaments
- 🌱 Coral Bells foliage color can deepen and become even more dramatically dark when exposed to cooler fall temperatures and morning sunlight, intensifying the burgundy-black pigmentation
- 🌱 The genus Heuchera is native to North America and was commonly used by indigenous peoples; modern cultivars like 'Obsidian' have been selected for their dramatic colored foliage through decades of plant breeding
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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