Heuchera, commonly known as Coral Bells, is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants that are valued for their attractive foliage. These plants are native to North America and are popular in gardens and landscapes for their diverse leaf colors, textures, and compact growth habits. Here are some key features of Heuchera:

1. Foliage: The main attraction of Heuchera is its foliage, which comes in a wide array of colors, including various shades of green, purple, red, silver, and variegated combinations. The leaves can be lobed or rounded, and their unique colors make Heuchera a versatile choice for adding visual interest to garden beds.

2. Flowers: Heuchera plants produce small, bell-shaped flowers on slender stems. While the flowers are charming, Heuchera is primarily grown for its foliage, and the bloom period varies depending on the species and cultivar.

3. Growth Habit: Heuchera plants typically form mounded clumps with a compact growth habit. The size and shape can vary among different varieties, but they generally range from 8 inches to 18 inches in height.

4. Sunlight Requirements: Heuchera prefers partial to full shade, especially in regions with hot summers. However, some varieties can tolerate more sunlight, particularly if the soil is consistently moist.

5. Soil and Watering: Well-draining soil is essential for Heuchera. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions. Regular watering is necessary, and they benefit from mulching to help retain soil moisture.

6. Hardiness: Heuchera species and cultivars are generally hardy perennials that can tolerate a range of climates. Specific hardiness depends on the particular variety.

7. Landscape Use: Heuchera is versatile and can be used in various garden settings. It works well as a border plant, in rock gardens, or as an accent in containers. Heuchera is also often used for adding color and texture in shade gardens.

8. Maintenance: These plants are relatively low-maintenance. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooming, and trimming back the foliage in late fall or early spring helps maintain a tidy appearance.

The wide variety of leaf colors and patterns make Heuchera an excellent choice for adding year-round interest to gardens, and their adaptability to different growing conditions makes them a favorite among gardeners.