Troubleshooting
Coral bells problems — and how to fix them
Coral bells (Heuchera sanguinea) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Crown heaving and exposure
Freeze-thaw cycles push the woody crown above soil level over time, leading to desiccation and dieback. Re-plant deeper or topdress with compost in autumn; divide every 3–4 years and replant vigorous sections at correct depth.
Vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus)
Vine weevil larvae feed on Heuchera roots, causing sudden collapse of apparently healthy plants. Treat container plants with nematode biological controls (Steinernema kraussei) in autumn; inspect and destroy any white C-shaped larvae found when dividing.
Leaf scorch in hot sun
Prolonged direct afternoon sun, particularly in USDA zones 7–8 or in dry summers, causes brown leaf margins and tip scorch. Site in afternoon shade or ensure consistent moisture if grown in full-sun positions.
Prevent coral bells problems before they start
Most coral bells issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for coral bells in general rather than its problems? Read the full coral bells care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Coral bells problems — FAQ
Why is my coral bells crown heaving and exposure?
Freeze-thaw cycles push the woody crown above soil level over time, leading to desiccation and dieback. Re-plant deeper or topdress with compost in autumn; divide every 3–4 years and replant vigorous sections at correct depth.
Why is my coral bells vine weevil (otiorhynchus sulcatus)?
Vine weevil larvae feed on Heuchera roots, causing sudden collapse of apparently healthy plants. Treat container plants with nematode biological controls (Steinernema kraussei) in autumn; inspect and destroy any white C-shaped larvae found when dividing.
Why is my coral bells leaf scorch in hot sun?
Prolonged direct afternoon sun, particularly in USDA zones 7–8 or in dry summers, causes brown leaf margins and tip scorch. Site in afternoon shade or ensure consistent moisture if grown in full-sun positions.