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 not subtle, and that is exactly why I love it. The foliage emerges bright cherry red in Spring, and it truly looks like it is glowing from the center of the plant. As the season progresses into Summer, the red deepens but does not dull out the way older red varieties often do. In our Upstate South Carolina heat, that kind of color stability is hard to find. Even when temperatures climb and humidity hangs in the air, ‘Fire Alarm’ keeps its intensity instead of fading to rusty tones.

The leaves are smooth, rounded, and slightly cupped, forming a tight, uniform mound that looks clean and intentional in the landscape. In Late Spring, slender stems rise above the foliage with small white flowers that add a light touch without distracting from the bold color below. The blooms are delicate, but the real show is always in the leaves. In milder Winters, especially here in Zone 8a, the foliage often holds nicely and continues providing color when much of the garden has gone quiet.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our Upstate trials, ‘Fire Alarm’ has been one of the most consistent Heucheras that we grow. It establishes quickly, branches well, and fills out evenly without thinning in the center. I have planted it in morning sun with afternoon shade and in bright filtered light, and both placements have worked beautifully as long as the soil drains well. In heavier clay, we amend generously, and once settled, it handles our Summers with surprising strength.

From a design standpoint, this plant demands attention. I love pairing it with dark purples for a rich layered look, or with chartreuse foliage for high contrast that really pops. It also works beautifully with soft silvers and creamy whites, where the red becomes the focal point instantly. In containers near an entry or patio, it absolutely commands the spotlight. If you want foliage color that feels bold, confident, and season long, ‘Fire Alarm’ delivers every single time.

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.