Heucherella Buttered Rum

The Heucherella 'Buttered Rum' is a recent variety with finely-cut foliage, resembling the leaves of maple trees, with red veins. Its changing colour ranges from salmon pink to very warm caramel orange in spring, then turns red at the first frost and takes on a beautiful burgundy coat in autumn. In summer, delicate clusters of white flowers emerge from the foliage. This compact perennial thrives in shade and moist soil.

Belonging to the Saxifragaceae family, Heucherella shares characteristics with its parents. Like Heucheras, it has evergreen foliage (or semi-evergreen, depending on the climate) that is highly decorative. Numerous cross-breeding efforts have preserved the most attractive traits, such as in 'Buttered Rum'. Its numerous leaves (approximately 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4in)) form an attractive clump that easily fits in front of flowerbeds, thanks to its reasonable size (30 cm (12in) by 30 cm (12in)). The lamina of the leaves is beautifully serrated, yet remains rounded, retaining its softness. Its vibrant and warm shades naturally catch the eye and gradually evolve with temperature changes. Its marbled orange color in spring gently turns reddish under the cold, taking on shades of pink-purple at the beginning of winter.

The white flowering occurs in June and July. Graceful stems bearing clusters of small bell-shaped flowers rise above the foliage, standing out distinctly. They bring a sense of lightness and delicacy to the edge of pathways and can thus take over from Primroses and Hellebores.

Like most Tiarellas and Heucheras, Heucherella prefers moist soil and semi-shaded exposures. It thrives in woodland areas and moist rockeries. It prefers a neutral, well-drained soil that is not too heavy. It requires very little maintenance. If winter has been harsh, simply trim the faded leaves.

The colours of Heucherella 'Buttered Rum' blend harmoniously in a border composed of various foliage. You will find complementary colours in the multiple palettes of its relatives. Hostas, perennial Geraniums, and ferns will provide the greens needed to create a multicolored tableau.