Coral bells are a popular perennial that have become a true favourite in many gardens, and it is easy to see why. With their decorative foliage in shades of green, red, lime, copper and purple, they bring colour and life to borders, pots and shady corners for much of the year.
Coral bells form dense leaf rosettes close to the ground and can, over time, become an attractive ground-covering feature. During summer, slender stems rise above the foliage carrying small, airy flowers in white, pink or red. Although the blooms are lovely, it is mainly the leaves that make coral bells such an ornamental plant.
When planting coral bells, it is a good idea to choose a spot where they can thrive long term. They grow best in partial shade, but many varieties can also tolerate sun as long as the soil remains evenly moist. In deep shade, the leaf colours may appear slightly less vibrant. The soil should be nutrient-rich, well-drained and preferably humus-rich. Coral bells do not like sitting in wet soil, especially during winter, so make sure excess water can drain away.
Planting can be done in both spring and autumn. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and position the plant so it sits at the same level as it did in the pot. Firm the soil gently and water thoroughly after planting. During the first few weeks, it is especially important to keep the soil lightly moist while the plant establishes itself.
Once coral bells have rooted, they require very little care. Regular watering is mainly needed during dry spells, especially if they are planted in sunny locations or grown in containers. A light feed in spring helps the plant get off to a good start, but excessive fertiliser can result in more foliage than colour.
After a few years, coral bells may begin to rise slightly out of the soil, as the plant gradually grows upwards. At that point, you can easily divide it in spring by lifting the root clump and splitting it into several sections. This provides new plants and keeps the original one healthy and compact.
Coral bells are generally hardy, but in exposed positions they may benefit from a layer of leaves or spruce branches as protection from bare frost and winter damp. In spring, remove any unsightly leaves to make room for fresh new growth.
With its wide range of colours and its resilience, coral bells are a perfect plant for creating structure and contrast in the garden. They are beautiful from early spring to late autumn and work equally well in borders or in pots on the patio. A true gem for anyone wanting to grow something low-maintenance yet striking.
Author: Emma Vogiatzi – gardener
Fact-checked by: Erik Hoekstra
Last updated: 2026-01-29