If butterflies and hummingbirds could write reviews, I’d like to think my garden would earn a glowing five stars. They bring so much life and color – it’s like receiving a gift that keeps on giving.
The secret to keeping these marvelous guests coming back is as old as the hills: grow plants they love.
Honestly, I’ve never counted every plant in my garden, but I do know how many of them attract these incredible creatures.
And there’s one that really stands out and all let me tell you, you’re in for a big surprise!
Heucheras Aka Coral Bells Are Pollinators’ Favorite!
Believe it or not, coral bells – yes, the ones with the bold, colorful foliage – are a pollinator’s paradise. It’s not the leaves that do the trick, though. It’s those sneaky little flowers!
Heucheras are North American native plants and their blooms are tiny, tubular, and surprisingly irresistible to pollinators. Hummingbirds and butterflies flock to these petite blossoms like kids to a candy store.
And you know what? Deer don’t really like coral bells so I’m sure it’ll become your favorite plant!
But here’s the catch: with so many varieties of heucheras out there, you’ll want to do your homework. Some are more pollinator-friendly than others!
Look For These Varieties
Sure, all heucheras boast stunning, colorful foliage, but if you really want to roll out the red carpet for pollinators, aim for red-leaved varieties.
Here’s the thing: that vibrant red hue is a beacon for hummingbirds, leading them straight to the nectar-rich flowers. It’s a win-win – they get their meal, and your garden gets its buzzing, fluttering guests.
To seal the deal, go for varieties like ‘Berry Smoothie’ or ‘Northern Exposure Red.’ Their striking red leaves and blooms are exactly what pollinators adore!
Not All Heucheras Will Thrive In Your Garden!
When you head out to shop for coral bells, you’ll likely be spoiled for choice. With so many options, it’s tempting to grab the flashiest ones but remember that not all of them will grow well in your garden.
Start by picking varieties that bloom in colors pollinators adore. Just ask the nursery worker to show you red-shade perennials!
Once you select the suitable ones, check their climate needs.
You see, these plants perform best in cooler regions because they’re native to the mountains. Luckily, there are heat-tolerant cultivars such as the ‘Great Expectations’ which is resistant to drought, and the famous ‘Caramel’ which thrives in super hot and humid regions.
Want a foolproof solution? Grow them in containers! This way, you can bring them inside to avoid harsh weather and keep them thriving no matter the season.
These Are The Tips For Getting Your Heucheras To Thrive
Shade is a heuchera’s best friend, but a little sun won’t hurt them. Based on my experience, they’re happy with up to six hours of direct sunlight – but don’t forget, their boldest colors pop best in the shade.
These versatile plants grow tall and wide, up to 16 inches tall and 36 inches wide, so pick a spot where they’ll have room to spread and thrive.
They’re also fans of moist soil, but you’ll need to strike a balance. Keep the soil moist during their first growing season, but once they’re established, ease off the watering to prevent soggy roots.
So, the recipe for a garden that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies is simple: one amazing plant (of course, corral bells), and you’ll have guests all season long!