What Is Bergenia?
Bergenia is a perennial that is very hardy and has lovely small pink blossoms in spring. They grow well in just about any soil conditions and can tolerate full sun. Bergenia are known for their large round or heart-shaped leaves. Leaves will stay green throughout the year in warm climates and turn bronze in colder climates. Because of its hardiness, bergenia is very hard to kill. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Bergenia was named after Karl August von Bergen, an 18th century German botanist. Bergenia cordifolia have their name from Bergen along with cordifolia, which means heart-shaped leaves. They are known to grow wild in Afghanistan, southeastern Tibet and the Himalayas.
Qualities
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Bergenia are known for their heart-shaped leaves that can range in color from dark green in summer to purple or bronze in winter. They have delicate 3- to 6-inch small pink flowers that bloom in clusters at the top of the stem. Bergenia leaves are leathery and very thick. Gardenguides.com tells us that leaves can grow to be 8 to 10 inches across with saw-toothed edges.
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Growing
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Botany.com finds that bergenia grow well as potted plants in well-drained soil. You can also grow them in sun or partial shade, but they must be planted in a sheltered area to protect them from cold and wind. They suggest planting near a shrub that will provide protection from the elements. Gardenguides.com suggests growing bergenia in Zones 4 to 10, which covers the majority of the United States except for areas along the Gulf Coast of Florida, the northern border of Canada, Wisconsin and Michigan. They also prefer light shade in hot areas.
Propagation
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Bergenia can be divided to create new plants in early spring or fall. Rainyside.com suggests dividing when clumps become large. They are also easy to start from seed. Bergenia don't need feeding, and large plants can be attractive to pests such as slugs. Gardenguides.com finds that new plants grow well near wet spots like a stream, brook, or pool. It is a good idea to set plants 12 to 15 inches apart.
Fun Fact
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Rainyside.com finds that rubbing a leaf of a bergenia between your thumb and forefinger in just the right way will create a sound like a pig squeaking.
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References
- Photo Credit Rainyside.com
