Bergenia

Description

Bergenia, also known as elephant’s ears, is a genus of perennial flowering plants native to central Asia. With its large, showy leaves and beautiful flowers, Bergenia is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add some color and texture to their landscape. This hardy plant is easy to grow and requires minimal care, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Saxifragales
Family	Saxifragaceae
Genus	Bergenia

Appearance

Bergenia plants have large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The leaves are evergreen, meaning they will stay on the plant year-round. In the spring, Bergenia produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers that can range in color from pink to purple to white. The flowers can grow up to 15 inches tall and are a favorite of bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Water: Bergenia plants prefer moist soil, but they can tolerate periods of drought. Water your Bergenia thoroughly once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Bergenia does not require much fertilizer, but you can give it a boost with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Bergenia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or peat moss before planting.Sunlight: Bergenia can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it will produce more flowers in full sun.Hardiness Zones: Bergenia is hardy in Zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Bergenia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and make sure your Bergenia has good air circulation.

Habitat

Bergenia is native to central Asia, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers cool, moist conditions and can tolerate cold temperatures and harsh weather.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Bergenia?
A: Water your Bergenia thoroughly once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.Q: What kind of soil does Bergenia prefer?
A: Bergenia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: How do I prevent fungal diseases in my Bergenia?
A: To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and make sure your Bergenia has good air circulation.Q: What hardiness zones is Bergenia suitable for?
A: Bergenia is hardy in Zones 3-9.

Related Plants

• Saxifraga
• Heuchera
• Tiarella
• Ajuga

References

• “Bergenia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c180.
• “Bergenia.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9215/bergenia/details.
• “Growing Bergenia.” HGTV, www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/bergenia.