Heucherella Copper Cascade

The 'Copper Cascade' Heucherella is a recent creation resulting from the cross-breeding of Tiarellas and Heucheras. Its foliage is a feast of rich colours. Firstly, it appears chartreuse green in spring, then it evolves towards a cinnamon shade and coppery orange, before blushing under the effect of cold and turning to bright red at the beginning of winter. It welcomes delicate clusters of white flowers in summer that seem to float above this multicoloured backdrop. Perennial with a low habit, it nevertheless spreads generously and is also suitable for hanging baskets.

Belonging to the Saxifragaceae family, Heucherellas have the characteristics of their parents. Like Heucheras, they have evergreen (or semi-evergreen depending on the climate) foliage that is highly decorative. Numerous cross-breeding efforts have allowed the preservation of the most attractive traits, such as 'Copper Cascade'. Its numerous leaves (approximately 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4in)) form a beautiful clump that easily fits in the front of flower beds, thanks to its reasonable size (30 cm (12in) tall and 40 cm (16in) wide). Their lamina is nicely cut, yet remains rounded, retaining all its softness. Its vivid and warm colours naturally attract attention and gradually change depending on the temperature: green, then brown, then orange, and finally pink-red. All of this is enhanced by a highly marked red veining that beautifully outlines the leaves. The different shades often coexist, sometimes simultaneously from one leaf to another, with each leaf reacting individually to the cold.

The white flowering occurs in June and July. Graceful stems bearing clusters of small bells emerge from the foliage, standing out distinctly. They bring a lot of lightness and delicacy to the woodland and can take over from Primroses and Hellebores.

Like most Tiarellas and Heucheras, Heucherellas prefer moist soils and semi-shaded exposures. Fresh rockeries suit them perfectly, as long as they find some rich substrate. They thrive in neutral, well-drained soils that are not too heavy. They require very little maintenance. If the winter has been harsh, simply prune the faded leaves.

The wide range of colours of the 'Copper Cascade' Heucherella is enough to create a multicoloured tableau. Group it around the edge of a flower bed or along a pathway. To enjoy its nuances more often, place it in hanging baskets near entrances or create compositions with spring bulbs, followed by summer annuals that it will accompany with its varied shades. Finally, it always harmoniously associates with its cousins, the Heucheras, which echo its colours or bring contrast. The choice is then endless.