Plant name: **Heuchera hybrid** **Common name:** Coral bells / Alum root **Identification confidence:** **High** for *Heuchera*; **cultivar uncertain** from this photograph, so I would not record a cultivar name. ## Main identifying features - Compact, clump-forming perennial in the front metal trough. - Deep burgundy to reddish-purple foliage. - Rounded, lobed leaves with crinkled/wavy edges. - Low mound of foliage, typical of ornamental *Heuchera* grown mainly for leaf colour. - Fine flower stems may appear above the foliage in season, though none are clearly visible here. There are other plants in the photo, but the main subject appears to be the red-leaved plant in the container. ## Mature size - **Height:** Usually around **20–40 cm** to the foliage. - **Spread:** Around **30–45 cm**. - Flower stems, if produced, may rise to **40–60 cm** depending on cultivar. ## Flowering season - Typically **late spring to summer**, often **May to July** in the UK. - Flowers are usually small and carried on slender stems; *Heuchera* is mainly valued for foliage. ## Suitable soil and light - Best in **fertile, well-drained but moisture-retentive soil or compost**. - Prefers **partial shade**, especially for dark-leaved varieties. - Can tolerate some sun, but in a metal container the roots may heat and dry quickly, so avoid hot afternoon sun if possible. ## Watering - Keep evenly moist, especially in containers. - Do not allow the compost to dry out completely for long periods. - Avoid waterlogging; make sure the trough has good drainage holes. ## Feeding - In spring, apply a **balanced slow-release fertiliser** or liquid feed lightly during the growing season. - Avoid overfeeding, which can encourage soft, weak growth. ## Pruning and maintenance - Remove old, tatty or dead leaves in **spring** to refresh the plant. - Cut off faded flower stems after flowering. - Every few years, lift and divide if the plant becomes woody or bare in the centre. - In autumn/winter, leave healthy foliage in place as it provides colour and some protection. ## Extra note for this container The plant looks generally healthy, but the container is quite exposed on a hard surface. Through winter, check that the pot drains freely and raise it slightly on feet if possible to prevent sitting in water.