The Northern Exposure™ group carries cold in its lineage. Bred from Heuchera richardsonii, a species native to the northern plains of the US and Canada, these cultivars extend the reach of ornamental heucheras deep into Zone 3 territory where winter is a serious matter. Their mounded, richly colored leaves — gold and yellow, with compact habit and attractive short flower stalks — bring genuine warmth to the shady edges of gardens that face genuine cold.

They ask for rich, well-drained, humus-heavy soil and consistent moisture, with afternoon shade preferred even where they can tolerate more sun. The crown must sit at soil level when planting; burying it is the most common cause of failure. Mass them along borders or edges, tuck them into containers, or set them as accents against green-leaved neighbors. Deer pass them by, and in summer their yellow flowers offer a nectar source for hummingbirds.