Heuchera 'Obsidian' (Alum Root) – Black Foliage Perennial for Shade or Sun | Evergreen & Fast-Growing

Add dramatic colour and year-round appeal to your garden with Heuchera 'Obsidian', a stunning variety of alum root loved by Aussie gardeners for its glossy black-purple foliage and easy-care nature. This compact perennial thrives in Australian conditions—from cool temperate to subtropical zones—and performs beautifully in both full sun and part shade.

Whether you're creating a vibrant container display, refreshing a shaded corner, or adding contrast to native plantings, ‘Obsidian’ brings elegance and reliability to the garden. Plus, it attracts pollinators and requires minimal water once established—making it a perfect choice for eco-conscious, low-maintenance landscapes.

✨ Features - Supplied in 50mm Pots

• Dramatic Black Foliage: Shiny, rich leaves that hold their colour even through our hot summers.

• Compact & Tidy Growth: Forms a neat mound approx. 25 cm high x 40 cm wide, with flower spikes reaching 60 cm.

• Year-Round Colour: Evergreen in most parts of Australia, even during winter.

• Sun or Shade Flexibility: Happy in full sun, dappled light, or part shade—perfect for a wide range of Aussie garden styles.

• Low Maintenance: Once established, it tolerates dry spells and minimal fuss.

• Pollinator-Friendly: Loved by native bees and hummingbird equivalents (honeyeaters love the garden companions).

• Grows Fast in Spring: Quick to bulk up and fill space—ideal for mass planting or gaps.

🌿 Growing Info for Australia

• Best Climate Zones: Suits zones 8–11 in Australia (QLD, NSW, VIC, SA, WA, TAS, ACT)

• Soil Preference: Free-draining soil enriched with organic matter

• Watering Needs: Average—allow soil to dry slightly between drinks

• Fertiliser: Use a balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring

• Light: Full sun to part shade

• Height & Spread: 25 cm H x 40 cm W | Flowers up to 60 cm tall

• Flowers: Small, subtle blooms in late autumn to early winter (foliage is the main attraction)

• Maintenance Tip: Do not bury the crown when planting. Remove any dead leaves to keep it looking tidy.

🌟 Why Aussie Gardeners Love It

1. Performs in Sun or Shade – From Brisbane to Hobart, it adapts easily across Aussie conditions.

2. Perfect for Native Garden Contrast – Its bold foliage looks stunning next to softer greys or silvers.

3. Water-Wise – Once established, it's a great addition to drought-aware gardens.

4. Stays Looking Good All Year – While others go dormant, this beauty keeps your beds vibrant.

5. Easy for Beginners & Pros – Reliable, tough, and a proven performer in Aussie trials.

❓ FAQs

Q: Is it safe to plant in full sun here in Australia?
A: Yes! ‘Obsidian’ holds its colour even in sunny Aussie gardens, just avoid intense afternoon sun in very hot zones (like inland QLD).

Q: Does it lose its leaves in winter?
A: No—it's evergreen in most parts of Australia, keeping its stunning foliage right through the year.

Q: Can I grow it in a pot?
A: Absolutely! It thrives in pots and planters—perfect for courtyards, balconies, or rental gardens.

Q: Is it frost-tolerant?
A: Yes, it's hardy to moderate frosts—ideal for temperate regions and inland gardens.

Q: How fast does it grow?
A: Very fast in spring. You'll notice new leaves and quick coverage within weeks of planting.

Photo(s) courtesy of TERRA NOVA® Nurseries, Inc.
www.terranovanurseries.complant