Heucherella x hybrida 'Heart of Darkness'

Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

22 other cultivars

perennial

Heart of Darkness Heucherella

Heucherella x hybrida 'Heart of Darkness'

The Story

Plant Bio

Heucherella x hybrida 'Heart of Darkness' is a perennial groundcover with deeply lobed, dark purple to blackish foliage that forms mounds, and produces small, delicate white flowers in summer.

This cultivar is prized for its striking dark foliage that provides dramatic contrast in shaded garden borders and containers, with a low-maintenance and vigorous growth habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid, contrasting foliage adds visual interest year-round.

Prefers shaded, moist conditions ideal for shaded garden zones.

Supports shade-loving insects in garden ecosystems.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistently moist soil

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly to settle soil and promote root growth.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
Ensure soil remains moist but well-drained during active growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for optimal foliage color.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, moist, well-drained soil for best foliage color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid dry, sunny locations ❌
Don’t let soil stay waterlogged ❌
Skip fertilizing during dormancy ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded rock gardenMoist woodland borderGroundcover in shaded beds

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Astilbes Heucheras

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Heart of Darkness Heucherella questions

What zones can Heart of Darkness Heucherella grow in?

Heart of Darkness Heucherella is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Heart of Darkness Heucherella deer resistant?

Yes — Heart of Darkness Heucherella is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Heart of Darkness Heucherella bloom?

Heart of Darkness Heucherella typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Heart of Darkness Heucherella need full sun?

Heart of Darkness Heucherella does best in part shade.