Can You Plant Coral Bells Poisonous in a Pot?

If you are looking for a stunning, low-maintenance plant to grow in a container, consider coral bells (Heuchera). This evergreen perennial boasts stylish foliage in a range of colors, from green and bronze to purple and silver, and delicate, bell-shaped flowers in late spring or early summer. However, before you rush to buy a coral bells plant for your pot, you may wonder whether it is safe to handle and grow, especially if you have kids, pets, or a sensitive skin. So, can you plant coral bells poisonous in a pot?

What Makes Coral Bells Potentially Poisonous?

Like many other plants, coral bells contain some toxic chemicals, called saponins and oxalates, that can irritate or harm humans and animals if ingested or touched. According to several sources, such as the University of California Extension and the ASPCA, coral bells are considered mildly to moderately poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses if they eat the leaves, stems, or flowers in large amounts.

However, the risk of coral bells poisoning is low in most cases, as the plant is not highly attractive to most animals and typically causes minor symptoms, such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or skin rash. Also, most people and pets would not likely eat coral bells by accident, as the leaves have a bitter or peppery taste that deters consumption. Additionally, coral bells are not known to be highly toxic to humans, except for people who have allergies or who handle the plant frequently and develop skin or eye irritation. In general, coral bells are considered safe to grow and handle as long as you take some precautions and use common sense.

How to Grow Coral Bells in a Pot

If you decide to grow coral bells in a container, here are some tips to help you succeed:

Choose a well-draining pot that is at least 6 inches wide and 8 inches deep, and has drainage holes at the bottom. You can use plastic, clay, ceramic, or metal pots, as long as they can withstand the weather conditions in your area.

Fill the pot with a high-quality potting mix that is rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost. Avoid using garden soil or heavy soils that can suffocate the roots and retain too much moisture.

Place the pot in a bright spot that receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. Coral bells can tolerate some shade, but they need some sun to show their best colors and to bloom well.

Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely. Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger in the soil up to the first joint; if it feels dry, water the plant until the excess water drains out of the holes.

Fertilize the plant occasionally with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the fertilizer in early spring and midsummer, but not in late fall or winter.

Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems, and to tidy up the plant. You can also divide the plant every 2-3 years to promote its health and vigor.

Conclusion

So, can you plant coral bells poisonous in a pot? The answer is yes, you can, as long as you take some precautions and use common sense. While coral bells contain some toxic chemicals that can harm humans and animals if ingested or touched, the risk of poisoning is low in most cases, especially if you handle the plant carefully and wash your hands after touching it. Additionally, coral bells are relatively easy and rewarding to grow in a container, as they add color, texture, and interest to your garden or patio with minimal effort. So, why not give them a try?