Q. We have an ash tree growing in a large planter and think it would look good if there were some plants under it. A nurseryman suggested Coral Bells but we’re unfamiliar with them. Do you think they would be a good choice?
A. Coral Bells, Heuchera sanguinea, are known to do well here in a variety of locations, including under deciduous trees. The plants are low-growing, usually under 12 inches tall, and 12 to 18 inches across. They are normally planted for their decorative foliage. Depending upon the variety selected, the leaves may be green from light to dark, some with contrasting red veins. Other varieties may have red leaves, burgundy leaves, orange leaves, and various speckled leaves. They are reliably evergreen so they always seem to be putting on a show.
Not to be outdone by the leaves, slender flower stalks arise in spring and may persist well into summer. They carry tiny bell-shaped flowers that may be white, pink or red, depending upon the variety. The individual flowers may be tiny, but they are quite attractive to hummingbirds. The flowering stems are also useful as delicate-looking but sturdy cut flowers.
Coral bells grow well in most garden soils that have good drainage. In hot climates, they should be planted where they receive light shade. In moderate to cooler locations, they can be grown in full sun but don’t have to be. About every three years or so, you should divide the plants, discarding the oldest woody stems in the center and replanting the younger and more vigorous plant sections.
Easy care plants, showy evergreen leaves and flowers that attract hummingbirds, make Coral Bells a good choice for many garden situations.
Q. Sometimes the leaf lettuce that I grow is bitter. What can cause this?
A. Lettuce can acquire a bitter taste when it grows too slowly. Because lettuce has a relatively small root system, it is important to keep the plants adequately fertilized and irrigated. Also, rows should be well‑spaced to allow good growth. Finally, hope for moderate winter weather because lettuce grows poorly in the face of summer-like heat and winter frost.
