perennialN. America Native

Bartram American Alumroot

Heuchera americana 'Bartram'

The Story

Plant Bio

Heuchera americana, known as Coral Bells, is a perennial with lush, lobed foliage that varies in color from green to bronze and purple, and produces delicate, bell-shaped flowers on slender stems in summer.

The 'Bartram' cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant, ruffled foliage that displays a striking mix of red and purple hues, making it a standout choice for ornamental foliage displays.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVivid foliage adds texture and color to shaded gardens.
Practical UsesProvides ground cover that suppresses weeds in moist, shaded areas.
Ecological BenefitsSupports beneficial insects and maintains soil moisture.
SpeciesHeuchera americanaCoral Bells

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Late fall

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In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in early spring
  2. Keep soil consistently moist during active growth
  3. Place in partial shade for best foliage color
  4. Mulch around base to retain moisture
  5. Divide every 3–4 years in early spring
  6. Remove dead leaves in late fall

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining, moist soil for optimal growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
  • Divide in early spring to encourage bushier growth

Don't

  • Avoid dry, well-drained soils ❌
  • Don’t expose to full, harsh sun
  • Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Mulch
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush foliageGroundcover under treesMoist, shaded garden bed

Companion Plants

HostaFerns AstilbeLigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bartram American Alumroot questions

What zones can Bartram American Alumroot grow in?

Bartram American Alumroot is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bartram American Alumroot deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Bartram American Alumroot, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Bartram American Alumroot bloom?

Bartram American Alumroot 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 Bartram American Alumroot need full sun?

Bartram American Alumroot does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Bartram American Alumroot with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.