Heuchera ‘Vulcano’: A Fiery Coral Bells for Year-Round Color
Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ is a bold and colorful perennial that brings texture and brilliance to shady gardens. Commonly known as Coral Bells or Alum Root, this hybrid cultivar belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. Its golden foliage with coppery edges and shimmering silver undertones makes it one of the most striking heucheras available today. Bred by Thierry and Sandrine Delabroye in France, ‘Vulcano’ was developed to withstand both summer heat and humidity, making it an adaptable and reliable choice for a wide range of climates.
This variety is not just about its foliage. In late spring and early summer, Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ sends up tall, wiry stems topped with airy clusters of small, bell-shaped pink flowers. These blooms rise gracefully above the mounded leaves, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies while adding a delicate floral accent to the bold foliage below. Gardeners treasure this plant for its long season of interest, low maintenance, and versatility in borders, containers, or woodland plantings.
Unique Foliage of Heuchera ‘Vulcano’
The foliage is the star of this cultivar. Leaves are large, crinkled, and deeply lobed, with a golden base color that glows in partial shade. Coppery-bronze edges frame each leaf, while a silvery sheen adds depth and shimmer, especially in dappled light. On the undersides, a soft red tone contrasts beautifully with the surface. These evergreen mounds remain colorful even through winter in many climates, giving year-round structure to garden beds.
Unlike some heucheras that fade or scorch in strong light, ‘Vulcano’ maintains its bold coloration when planted in partial shade with morning sun. The shimmering leaves combine well with deep green hostas, blue fescues, or purple-leaved ajugas, making it a centerpiece for foliage contrast.
Growth Habit and Size
Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ has a compact, mounding habit. Mature plants typically reach 20–25 cm (8–10 in) tall at the foliage level and spread 25–40 cm (10–15 in) wide. The flower spikes extend higher, sometimes rising 40–50 cm (16–20 in) above the foliage, creating a layered look in mixed plantings. Because it forms dense, clumping growth, it works well as edging along pathways, grouped in mass plantings, or tucked into containers.
Gardeners in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9 can grow this plant reliably. In colder zones, mulch around the crown to help protect roots during winter freezes. In warmer areas, the heat-tolerant genes from Heuchera villosa ensure it performs well in humid summers.
Flowering Season of Heuchera ‘Vulcano’
From late spring into early summer, ‘Vulcano’ puts on a delightful flower display. Slender stems rise above the foliage, carrying airy sprays of coral-pink buds that open to soft pink, bell-shaped blooms. While the flowers are smaller compared to the bold leaves, they attract pollinators and lend a light, graceful contrast to the dense mound of foliage. In some regions with long growing seasons, light reblooming can occur into late summer or early fall if plants are well cared for and spent flower stalks are trimmed.
How to Grow Heuchera ‘Vulcano’
Caring for Coral Bells is straightforward, but giving them the right conditions ensures long-term health and dazzling foliage.
Light Requirements
Place Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ in partial shade for best results. Morning sun followed by afternoon shade is ideal, as this maintains the golden color of the foliage without scorching the edges. In cooler regions, plants can tolerate more sunlight if soil moisture is consistent. In hotter climates, full afternoon shade is recommended.
Soil Needs
Plant ‘Vulcano’ in fertile, humus-rich soil that drains well. Sandy loam amended with compost or leaf mold works perfectly. While the plant tolerates a range of soil textures, it will not thrive in heavy, waterlogged clay. Aim for soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Good drainage is essential to prevent crown rot, one of the most common issues with coral bells.
Watering Heuchera ‘Vulcano’
Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Water deeply once or twice a week during dry spells, providing about 2.5 cm (1 in) of water weekly. Established plants are somewhat drought-tolerant, but regular watering during hot summers maintains both foliage color and bloom performance. Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal problems; instead, water at the base of the plant.
In containers, check soil moisture more frequently, as pots dry faster than garden beds. Use a high-quality potting mix with good drainage, and water when the top 2–3 cm (about 1 in) of soil feels dry.
Fertilizing Coral Bells
Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ is not a heavy feeder. In spring, apply a thin layer of compost around the base or use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. This will support new growth and flower production. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they may encourage weak growth and reduce leaf coloration. For plants in containers, use a diluted liquid fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season to replace nutrients washed away by frequent watering.
Pruning and Maintenance
In early spring, remove old, tattered leaves to make way for fresh growth. Cut spent flower stalks back to the base after blooming to encourage repeat flowering and keep the plant tidy. Over time, the crown of Heuchera may push upward out of the soil. If this happens, lift and replant the clump slightly deeper, or divide it to rejuvenate growth. Divide every three to four years to keep plants healthy and prevent overcrowding.
Propagation of Heuchera ‘Vulcano’
Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ can be propagated by division or cuttings.
- Division: The easiest method. In spring or fall, dig up the plant and carefully separate the crown into sections, each with roots and foliage. Replant divisions at the same depth and water thoroughly.
- Cuttings: Take basal cuttings in spring or early summer. Remove lower leaves, dip the cutting in rooting hormone, and place it in a moist, well-draining mix. Keep in partial shade until rooted.
Note: Some cultivars may have propagation restrictions if patented, so check before producing plants for commercial purposes.
Pests and Diseases
This cultivar is generally low-maintenance, but it may occasionally encounter problems:
- Vine Weevils: Adults chew notches in leaves, while larvae feed on roots and crowns. Use nematodes for larvae control or hand-pick adults.
- Fungal Issues: Powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot may occur in damp conditions. Improve air circulation, remove affected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.
- Foliar Nematodes: These microscopic pests tunnel inside leaves, causing brown streaks. Infected plants may need to be removed, as no direct treatment exists.
Proper planting, spacing, and maintenance will prevent most of these problems.
Design Uses
Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ is a versatile perennial that fits seamlessly into many garden styles. Use it as:
- A colorful border edging along shaded paths.
- A container specimen for patios or shaded balconies.
- A foliage contrast against Hostas, Ferns, or dark-leaved Heucheras.
- A mass planting to brighten woodland gardens.
Because of its evergreen habit in milder climates, it provides winter interest, bridging the gap when most perennials die back.
Final Thoughts on Heuchera ‘Vulcano’
Heuchera ‘Vulcano’ combines dazzling golden foliage, copper highlights, and delicate pink flowers in one compact, easy-care package. With its origins in the work of French breeders Thierry and Sandrine Delabroye, this Coral Bells cultivar brings both style and resilience to gardens. Whether used in containers, borders, or shaded beds, it offers reliable performance and season-long appeal. Plant it in partial shade, give it rich, well-drained soil, and enjoy its fiery foliage show year after year.
