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Herbaceous Perennial

Bergenia 'Sunshade'
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

An old cultivar introduced around 1902, sadly no longer widely available, with large, oval-shaped leathery dark green foliage which does not provide much winter interest. Clusters of bright pink flowers appear on strong stems above the foliage from mid to late 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 Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Saxifragaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, well drained, humus rich soil in full sun or partial shade. Grow in full sun for best flower and Autumn leaf colour. Tolerates poor soil, exposed sites and shady areas, may struggle in hot conditions

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
  • Low Maintenance
  • 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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