When it comes to heat tolerance, two cultivars of Heuchera stand out – ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’. These cultivars have gained popularity among gardeners and landscapers for their ability to thrive in hot and sunny conditions. The secret behind their heat tolerance lies in their parentage, which includes Heuchera villosa, a species known for its ability to withstand high temperatures.
Heuchera villosa is a native plant species found in North America, particularly in the southeastern regions. It naturally grows in woodland areas, where it is exposed to both shade and heat. Over time, this species has developed a tolerance to higher temperatures, making it an ideal parent for heat-tolerant cultivars.
‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’ are among the many new cultivars of coral bells that have been bred using a combination of Heuchera species. These hybrids have been carefully selected to inherit the desirable traits of their parent plants, including heat tolerance.
I have personally grown ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’ in my garden, and they have proven to be exceptionally heat tolerant. Even during scorching summer days, these plants have maintained their vibrant foliage and continued to thrive. This is especially impressive considering that many other plants struggle and wilt under such extreme heat.
In addition to their heat tolerance, ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’ offer a beautiful display of foliage. ‘Caramel’ showcases warm shades of caramel, amber, and bronze, while ‘Citronelle’ boasts vibrant chartreuse leaves. These unique colors can add a striking contrast to your garden or landscape design.
It is worth noting that there are numerous other cultivars of coral bells available, all of which are hybrids of various Heuchera species. While ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’ have gained recognition for their heat tolerance, there may be other cultivars that perform equally well in hot conditions. It is always recommended to consult local nurseries or gardening experts in your area to determine the best heat-tolerant cultivars for your specific climate and growing conditions.
To summarize, if you are looking for a Heuchera cultivar that can withstand high temperatures, ‘Caramel’ and ‘Citronelle’ are excellent choices. Their parentage, which includes Heuchera villosa, provides them with the necessary heat tolerance to thrive in hot and sunny conditions. However, it’s important to explore other cultivars and consult local experts to find the best heat-tolerant options for your specific area.
