Botanical Name: Heuchera ‘Fire Alarm’ Common Name: Coral Bells Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Most Climates (USDA Zones 4–9) Size: 10–14" Tall × 16–20" Spread Growth Habit: Dense, 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: Brilliant Red Foliage, Strong Color Retention, Evergreen to Semi-Evergreen, Pollinator Friendly Uses: Shade Gardens, Borders, Containers, Woodland Gardens, Bold 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 ‘Fire Alarm’

Heuchera ‘Fire Alarm’ is prized for its intense, fire-engine red foliage that delivers standout color from early spring through fall. The broad, slightly ruffled leaves emerge bright red and hold their color remarkably well through summer heat, often intensifying again as temperatures cool.

In late spring, slender flower stalks rise above the foliage bearing small, light-colored blooms that add a subtle accent without detracting from the foliage display. Even when not in bloom, the plant provides strong visual impact year-round.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Fire Alarm’ has shown excellent vigor and color stability, even in warm, humid conditions. It forms a full, uniform mound and maintains clean foliage with minimal maintenance.

We especially appreciate how dramatic this variety is in design. The vivid red foliage creates instant contrast against greens, silvers, and dark purples, making it a natural focal point in shade gardens and containers alike.

Fire Alarm vs. Other Heuchera Varieties

Among red Heuchera, this variety is the brightest and most intense, delivering true fire-engine red foliage that stands out immediately in the landscape. Compared to Forever Red Heuchera, which leans deeper and more crimson, Fire Alarm is more electric and eye-catching. It is bolder than Berry Smoothie, which has softer, rosier undertones, making Fire Alarm the top choice when maximum contrast is the goal. 

From a performance standpoint, Fire Alarm is valued for its strong vigor and reliable color through the growing season. In mixed plantings, it pairs exceptionally well with Obsidian and Northern Exposure™ Silver for sharp color separation.Gardeners looking to anchor containers, brighten shaded beds, or create high-contrast borders often choose Fire Alarm over darker reds for its visibility.