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Herbaceous Perennial

Bergenia × smithii
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

An evergreen perennial forming a rhizomatous clump with mid-dark green foliage that turns a brilliant shade of purple in winter. Tall, upright stems bear clusters of bell shaped, pink-white flowers in spring

Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Chalk
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Purple
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

North–facing or East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Saxifragaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Bergenia are evergreen rhizomatous perennials with leathery, rounded leaves and dense, erect clusters of bell-shaped pink or white flowers in spring

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows well in most humus-rich soils but dislikes extremes of heat and drought. Frosts may damage early flowers. See Bergenia cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division or by rhizome section cuttings in Spring or Autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Garden edging
  • Ground cover
Pruning

Remove faded flower spikes and leaves to keep plants tidy

Pests

May be susceptible to vine weevil and slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to a leaf spot

Get involved

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