Heuchera Sanguinea 'Black Taffeta'

Coral Bells / Alumroot / Fancy-Leaf Coral Bells 'Black Taffeta' / Alum Root 'Black Taffeta'

Botanical Name: Heuchera sanguinea 'Black Taffeta'
Family: Saxifragaceae
Origin: Hybrid selection (genus native to North America)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

Heuchera ‘Black Taffeta’ brings luxe colour and texture to South Australian gardens. Its deeply ruffled, glossy near-black to burgundy foliage forms neat mounds year-round, topped in late spring–summer by airy stems of soft pink bells that draw pollinators. Brilliant for borders, pots and shaded courtyards where you want drama with very low fuss.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.25–0.35 m H × 0.35–0.45 m W (flower spikes to ~0.5–0.6 m)
• Growth Rate: 10-30 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Glossy, frilled leaves in deep burgundy/black tones; evergreen in mild climates
• Flowers: Soft pink bell sprays on wiry stems; long blooming (late spring–summer)
  
• Seasonal Interest: Year-round foliage colour; peak flower show late spring–summer
• Wildlife Value: Bee-friendly flowers; supports good garden biodiversity
• Tolerance: Heat-tolerant (with summer shade), wind-tolerant; light frost (protect from hard frost)
• Planting Density: Mass planting 4–6 plants/m²; edging 3–4 plants per linear metre
• Pet Friendly: Pet-Friendly/Non-toxic to cats and dogs

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Part shade to bright indirect; morning sun OK, protect from harsh afternoon sun
• Soil: Free-draining, humus-rich loam or sandy loam; avoid waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: water weekly in summer (keep evenly moist); reduce in winter, letting the top few cm dry between waterings
• Maintenance: Mulch to keep roots cool; trim spent flower stems; light feed in early spring and late summer
• Lifespan: 5–10+ years in suitable conditions
• Climate Zones: Excellent for temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens; also suits coastal suburbs with protection from salt wind
• Soil pH: Acid to Neutral

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Edge shady paths and courtyards for a crisp, high-contrast border
• Drop into decorative pots for instant “black foliage” impact on decks and balconies
• Mass-plant under deciduous trees with silver/green companions (hosta, hellebore, liriope) for a designer woodland look

Why You Will Love It

This is the statement foliage plant that makes everything around it look better. ‘Black Taffeta’ gives you designer colour 12 months a year, then adds a pretty flush of pink flowers just when the garden needs a lift—without demanding constant care. Perfect for stylish borders and pots that sell the look of a professionally designed garden.