Heuchera 'Fire Chief'
Overview
Uses: Containers, borders, woodland gardens, edging, and partial shade plantings.
Benefits: Brilliant ruby-red foliage maintains strong color through the growing season. Soft pink blooms rise above the leaves in early summer, adding contrast and seasonal movement.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Mounding, Clumping — dense rosettes forming compact foliage cushions.
Bloom Color: Pink
Foliage Color: Ruby Red
Mature Height: 9–12 inches
Mature Width: 12–18 inches
Bloom Season: Late Spring through Summer
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
'Fire Chief' delivers vivid red foliage that stands out in shaded beds and containers. Its rich color pairs easily with silver, green, or chartreuse companions, creating strong contrast in mixed plantings.
In early summer, slender stems carry soft pink flowers above the foliage, adding vertical movement without overpowering the compact mound below. This variety maintains dependable color and tidy form throughout the growing season.
Care
Heuchera 'Fire Chief' Care
Plant in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment and during extended dry periods, while avoiding waterlogged conditions that can damage the crown.
Partial shade enhances foliage color and helps prevent leaf scorch, though plants tolerate more sun in cooler climates. Remove damaged leaves in early spring before new growth begins, and deadhead flower stems after blooming.
Feed once yearly in spring with a
slow release fertilizer
to support healthy foliage and steady growth.
Container Growing: This variety performs well in containers placed in partial sun or filtered light. Use a well-draining potting mix and monitor watering carefully, as containers dry out more quickly than garden soil. Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Heuchera 'Fire Chief' for Sale Online?
Plants are shipped in greenhouse-grown containers and arrive ready for planting. Growth stage may vary depending on season. For current sizing or availability, please
contact us.
How Large Does Heuchera 'Fire Chief' Grow?
Mature plants form compact mounds approximately 9–12 inches tall and 12–18 inches wide, making them suitable for edging, containers, and layered shade plantings.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
This plant is commonly known as Coral Bells.
Is 'Fire Chief' evergreen?
Foliage is often semi-evergreen in mild climates. In colder regions, leaves may decline over winter and renew in spring.
Does it attract pollinators?
The pink flowers attract bees and other pollinators during the bloom period.
Is it deer resistant?
Heuchera is generally less favored by deer, though browsing may occur when food sources are limited. For additional options suited to areas with deer pressure, explore our
Deer-Resistant Perennials and Grasses
collection.
How does it compare to other coral bells?
This variety stands out for its vivid red foliage color and compact growth. Explore additional selections in our
Perennials
collection for complementary options.