Botanical Name: Heuchera ‘Black Forest Cake’ Common Name: Coral Bells Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 4–9) Size: 8–12" Tall × 14–18" Spread Growth Habit: Dense, Low-Mounding, Well-Branched Habit Sunlight: Partial Shade to Full Sun (Best Color in Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade) Soil: Well-Drained, Organic-Rich Soil Water Needs: Moderate; Consistent Moisture Preferred Bloom Season: Late Spring to Early Summer Fertilizer: Light Feeding in Spring Features: Near-Black Foliage with Glossy Finish, Strong Color Retention, Evergreen to Semi-Evergreen, Pollinator Friendly Uses: Shade Gardens, Borders, Containers, Woodland Gardens, Foliage Contrast

Patent: ✔ Patented Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

See our complete Heuchera Growth & Care Guide for more in depth care details.

More About Heuchera ‘Black Forest Cake’

Heuchera ‘Black Forest Cake’ is prized for its deep, near-black foliage with a subtle glossy sheen that gives the plant a rich, polished look throughout the season. The rounded leaves hold their dark color exceptionally well, even through summer heat, making this one of the darkest coral bells available.

In late spring, delicate flower spikes rise above the foliage, carrying small creamy-white blooms that provide soft contrast without distracting from the dramatic leaves. Even when not in bloom, the foliage remains the star year-round.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Black Forest Cake’ has shown excellent vigor, color stability, and garden performance. It forms a dense, uniform mound that looks intentional in both containers and in-ground plantings.

We especially appreciate how well it anchors plantings. The dark foliage creates contrast with silvers, chartreuse, pinks, and whites, making surrounding plants appear brighter and more vibrant. It also performs reliably in containers, where its color really stands out.

Black Forest Cake vs. Other Heuchera Varieties

‘Black Forest Cake’ offers a richer, chocolate-toned interpretation of dark Heuchera, sitting just lighter than true black varieties like Obsidian. Its foliage often shows subtle brown and burgundy undertones, giving it a warmer appearance. Compared to Forever Purple, it reads deeper and more neutral, making it easier to integrate into mixed color palettes. It complements reds like Forever Red and Fire Alarm while softening their intensity.

This variety is ideal for gardeners who want dark foliage without the starkness of pure black. Black Forest Cake excels in layered plantings where depth and texture are more important than contrast alone. It works especially well with Georgia Peach and Northern Exposure™ Silver for balanced designs. In shaded borders and containers, it provides richness without overwhelming surrounding plants.