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Description
Bergenia Crassifolia, commonly known as Siberian tea or elephant’s ears, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to Siberia, China, and Northern Japan, and has been introduced to Europe and North America as an ornamental plant. This plant is characterized by its large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves and pink or magenta bell-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Bergenia |
Appearance
Bergenia Crassifolia grows up to 30 cm in height and 45 cm in width. Its large, leathery leaves are 15-30 cm long and 10-20 cm wide, and have a glossy texture. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and are green in color, with a reddish tint in colder climates. The plant produces pink or magenta bell-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring and last for several weeks. The flowers are 2-3 cm in diameter and grow in clusters on a tall, sturdy stem.
Care Guide
Bergenia Crassifolia is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Bergenia Crassifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but may not produce as many flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Bergenia Crassifolia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bergenia Crassifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves. Use a slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Deer: Deer may eat the leaves and flowers of this plant. Use a deer repellent to deter them.
Habitat
Bergenia Crassifolia is native to Siberia, China, and Northern Japan, where it grows in rocky areas, forests, and meadows. It has been introduced to Europe and North America as an ornamental plant, and can be found in gardens, parks, and landscapes. This plant prefers cool, moist climates and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can Bergenia Crassifolia grow in full shade?
- A: Yes, this plant can tolerate full shade, but may not produce as many flowers.
- Q: How often should I water Bergenia Crassifolia?
- A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
- Q: What is the hardiness zone for Bergenia Crassifolia?
- A: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
- Q: Does Bergenia Crassifolia attract pollinators?
- A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Bergenia Cordifolia
- Bergenia Ciliata
- Bergenia Purpurascens
- Bergenia Emeiensis
References
- “Bergenia Crassifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277524&isprofile=0&basic=Bergenia%20crassifolia>.
- “Bergenia Crassifolia.” Plants for a Future. Accessed 21 July 2021. <https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Bergenia+crassifolia>.
- “Bergenia Crassifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 21 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11189/i-bergenia-crassifolia-i/details>.
