Contents
Description
Bergenia Ciliata, also known as the Himalayan Bergenia or Ciliate Bergenia, is a perennial plant native to the Himalayas and Tibet. It is a member of the Saxifragaceae family and is prized for its unique foliage and attractive flowers. Bergenia Ciliata is a clump-forming plant that can grow up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide. Its leaves are large, rounded, and slightly hairy, with toothed edges that turn red in the fall. The plant produces pink or white flowers on tall spikes in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Bergenia |
Appearance
Bergenia Ciliata has large, glossy, leathery leaves that are slightly hairy and can grow up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The leaves are green in the summer and turn a reddish-purple color in the fall. The plant produces tall spikes of pink or white flowers in the spring and summer that can grow up to 2 feet tall.
Care Guide
Water
Bergenia Ciliata prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize Bergenia Ciliata with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil
Bergenia Ciliata prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy soils with compost or sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Bergenia Ciliata prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon.
Hardiness Zones
Bergenia Ciliata is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bergenia Ciliata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. To prevent this, make sure to plant Bergenia Ciliata in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Bergenia Ciliata is native to the Himalayas and Tibet, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas at elevations of up to 12,000 feet. It prefers cool, moist conditions and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bergenia Ciliata tolerate drought?
A: Bergenia Ciliata prefers moderate watering and can tolerate short periods of drought, but it does best with consistent moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize Bergenia Ciliata?
A: Fertilize Bergenia Ciliata with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: Can I grow Bergenia Ciliata in a container?
A: Yes, Bergenia Ciliata can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How do I propagate Bergenia Ciliata?
A: Bergenia Ciliata can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps, making sure each division has roots attached.
Related Plants
- Bergenia Cordifolia
- Bergenia Purpurascens
- Bergenia Crassifolia
- Bergenia Ligulata
References
- “Bergenia Ciliata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n940.
- “Bergenia Ciliata.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11616/bergenia-ciliata/details.
- “Bergenia Ciliata.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/bergenia-ciliata-growing-profile-4848255.
