Bergenia spp.

bergenia

Saxifragaceae

Overview

Bergenia species are robust evergreen perennials that bring bold architectural presence and multi-season interest to Pacific Northwest shade gardens with their distinctive large, glossy, leathery foliage and early spring flowering displays. Bergenia is a large, glossy evergreen, herbaceous perennial native to shady north-facing rocks, stony slopes, and rock streams in the forest and alpine zones of China and Siberia. These adaptable plants, commonly known as elephant-eared saxifrage or pigsqueak (for the distinctive sound produced when rubbing their rubbery leaves), form spreading clumps of handsome foliage that provide year-round structure in challenging shade conditions where many other perennials struggle. Bergenia has large, shiny leaves that look best when planted en masse, either as a groundcover or a border. The leaves are semi-evergreen and turn burgundy in the fall. Their spring display of pink to white flowers appears on sturdy stems well before most perennials begin growth, providing crucial early-season nectar for pollinators while adding welcome color to the awakening garden. In the Pacific Northwest's moderate climate, these Asian natives thrive in the region's naturally acidic soils and consistent moisture, adapting to conditions from full shade to partial sun while requiring minimal maintenance and offering exceptional drought tolerance once established.

How to Identify

Bergenia species are identified by their large, thick, leathery, evergreen leaves arranged in basal rosettes, typically 6-35 cm long and heart-shaped to rounded with wavy or saw-toothed edges. The plants produce clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, or purple on thick, reddish, leafless stems rising above the foliage in early spring.