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Overview
Bergenia is a genus of approximately 10 species of evergreen perennials in the saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae), growing 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) tall and wide. Large rounded to spoon-shaped leathery glossy leaves 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) — the common name 'elephant's ears' references the large rounded leaf shape. Many species and cultivars develop burgundy to maroon foliage tints in winter — the anthocyanin production is triggered by cold temperatures and is a genus trait. Pink, magenta, white, or red flowers in dense clusters on stout stems 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) in early to mid-spring. Species commonly cultivated: B. crassifolia (heartleaf bergenia — the hardiest, zone 3), B. cordifolia (heart-shaped leaves), B. ciliata (hairy bergenia — deciduous in cold climates). Hybrids include 'Bressingham Ruby' (deep pink flowers, red-flushed leaves), 'Winter Glow' (strong winter color), and 'Silberlicht' (white flowers aging to pink). Spreads by thick surface rhizomes to form ground-covering colonies. Slug and snail damage on the large leaves is the primary pest concern. Tolerates dry shade, clay, urban pollution, and neglect — one of the most adaptable evergreen perennials. Vine weevil larvae can damage the roots in container culture. Native to central Asia (Siberia, Mongolia, China, Himalaya, Afghanistan). Non-toxic. Deer-resistant. Zones 3–8. This entry represents the genus. Growth rate is moderate.
Native Range
Native to central Asia — Siberia, Mongolia, China, the Himalaya, and Afghanistan, growing on rocky slopes, in mountain meadows, and at forest margins.Suggested Uses
Grown as a groundcover and in borders in zones 3–8. The large evergreen foliage with winter burgundy tints and the spring flowers are the year-round and seasonal features. Tolerates dry shade, clay, and neglect. Slug management. Non-toxic. Deer-resistant.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 2'
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 2 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Early to mid-spring (March–May), lasting 3–4 weeks. Pink, magenta, white, or red flowers in dense clusters on stout stems. The evergreen foliage with winter burgundy tints — not the flowers — is the year-round feature.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Pink, magenta, white, or red; in dense clusters on stout stems 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)Foliage Description
Dark green, large, rounded to spoon-shaped, leathery, glossy, 6-12 inches (15-30 cm); many species and cultivars develop burgundy to maroon tints in winterGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Part shade to full sun (also tolerates full shade). Adapts to clay, dry shade, and neglect. Slug and snail damage on large leaves. Spreads by surface rhizomes. Winter burgundy foliage tints (cold-triggered). Non-toxic. Deer-resistant. Zones 3–8.Pruning
Remove spent flower stems at the base after bloom. Remove tattered or damaged leaves throughout the season. The evergreen foliage is self-maintaining. Divide congested clumps every 3–4 years in spring.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Maintenance Level
very lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons