Winter Bergenia

The handsome, rounded, bright green leaves, to 35cm, grow to form dense rosettes. The flowers stand tall, above the foliage and open very early in the season. The flowers open freely, changing from white to soft pink. The leaves are handsome and rounded with a lovely gloss.

Bergenia may have fallen out of fashion but we think they have been underutilised and need to make a comeback. Especially as they are so versatile and easy care.

The thick, leathery foliage is commonly known as Elephant Ears. The leaves turn bronze in winter as the weather cools.

The blooms open winter to summer on green and red stems. In more mild climates they will even flower as early as winter. The flowers are rosy pink and last well in a vase.

Plant Bergenia in any well drained soil in a full sun to part shade position. Mulch in autumn and that is about it! You can remove spent flowers and leaves to tidy in spring but they need nary more care than that.

The botanical name of Bergenia was given to honour German botanist and Doctor, Karl August von Bergen (1704-1759).?