Pigsqueak Bergenia pacumbis
ABOUT
Bergenia pacumbis, also known as the elephant's-ears due to its large, round leaves, is a perennial plant with a distinctive and bold appearance. The leaves are thick, leathery, and often have a glossy surface, taking on a rich green color. As the seasons change, the foliage can take on a reddish or bronze tinge, adding to its visual interest. The plant produces flowers that stand above the foliage on stout stems. These blossoms, which can be seen in clusters, range in color from soft pinks to deeper shades of magenta. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, providing a striking contrast against the robust leaves. Elephant's-ears tend to have a clumping growth habit, with the leaves emerging from the base of the plant, often in a circular arrangement that resembles a rosette. The textural qualities of the foliage, with their prominent veining, make this plant an attractive addition to any garden or landscape setting. Overall, the elephant's-ears has a lush and vibrant appearance with a unique, almost tropical charm, despite not detailing its specific size, it is clear that this plant makes a significant impact with its foliage and floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Pigsqueak, Elephant's Ears, Heartleaf Bergenia, Leather Bergenia, Siberian Tea, Winter Blooming Bergenia, Heart-leaf.
Common names
Bergenia ciliata, Bergenia ligulata, Saxifraga ciliata, Saxifraga ligulata.
ToxicityTo humans
Bergenia pacumbis, commonly known as Bergenia, is not widely recognized for its toxicity to humans. There is limited information on its effects if ingested, so caution should be taken. If a person were to ingest a plant part and experience symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, they should seek medical advice. As with any plant, individual allergies may occur, and it's prudent to handle unknown plants carefully.
To pets
For Bergenia pacumbis, also known as Bergenia, there isn't a well-documented history of toxicity to pets such as cats and dogs. However, the lack of information suggests a precautionary approach should be taken. If a pet ingests parts of the plant and exhibits signs of poisoning like vomiting, diarrhea, or abnormal behavior, it's important to contact a veterinarian. Always be cautious with plants around pets, especially if they are known to chew on foliage.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as Fringed Bergenia, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes with its attractive leaves and flowers.
- Low maintenance: It is known for being hardy and requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all levels.
- Shade tolerance: Fringed Bergenia thrives in partial shade, providing an option for gardening in areas with less direct sunlight.
- Soil adaptability: It can grow in a variety of soil types, although it prefers moist, well-drained conditions.
- Seasonal interest: With its evergreen foliage and seasonal blooms, Fringed Bergenia offers year-round visual interest.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers may attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the local ecosystem.
- Ground cover: Dense foliage makes it an effective ground cover, capable of reducing weed growth and soil erosion.
- Drought resistance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Medical Properties- Antilithic: Bergenia pacumbis has been used traditionally to help dissolve and remove kidney stones.
- Diuretic: The plant is known to promote the production of urine, aiding in the flushing out of urinary stones and cleansing the urinary tract.
- Astringent: Bergenia pacumbis can be used for its tightening effect on tissues, which may help in the management of wounds and hemorrhages.
- Anti-inflammatory: It has properties that reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial in cases of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
- Antimicrobial: The plant exhibits properties that may help prevent the growth of bacteria, and thus could be used in treating infections.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Tannin Extraction: Bergenia, also known as Pigsqueak, contains tannins that can be extracted for use in the leather tanning industry.
- Natural Dye: The leaves of Pigsqueak can be used to produce a natural dye for textiles, yielding shades of green and brown.
- Garden Aesthetics: Due to its large, glossy leaves and pink flowers, Pigsqueak is often planted for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks.
- Ground Cover: Pigsqueak's ability to form dense clusters makes it an effective ground cover that can help control soil erosion.
- Edible Leaves: The leaves of Pigsqueak, while not a common food source, can be consumed if cooked to remove any potential irritants.
- Container Gardening: Pigsqueak can be grown in pots and containers, where its colorful foliage and flowers can beautify balconies and patios.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers and foliage of Pigsqueak are sometimes used in floral arrangements as filler thanks to their longevity and interesting textures.
- Water Features: Being tolerant of moist conditions, Pigsqueak can be planted around ponds or water features in gardens.
- Rock Gardens: The plant's tolerance for rocky, less fertile soils makes it a suitable choice for rock garden compositions.
- Butterfly Gardens: Pigsqueak's flowers can attract butterflies and other pollinators, making it a good addition to butterfly gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bergenia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bergenia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Tenacity: Bergenia is known for its ability to survive in tough conditions, symbolizing resilience and the will to endure.
- Protection: The thick foliage of Bergenia has been associated with shielding and safeguarding, representing a symbol of protection.
- Adaptability: As Bergenia can thrive in various climates, it symbolizes adaptability and the ability to prosper in different environments.
- Harmony: The plant’s capacity to grow well with others can symbolize the importance of cooperation and living in harmony.
WaterElephant's Ears should be watered thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before the next watering. Depending on the humidity and temperature, this could mean watering once a week. Outdoors in a garden setting, Elephant's Ears requires less frequent watering, relying mostly on natural rainfall; indoors or in drier climates, you might need to water every few days. Each watering should be deep enough to saturate the roots, typically using about 1-2 gallons for an outdoor plant, although container plants may require less, around 16-32 ounces, depending on the size of the pot.
LightElephant's Ears thrive in partial shade to full sunlight. The best spot for this plant would be one where it receives morning sunlight and is shaded from the intense afternoon sun. However, it can also adapt to fairly low light conditions, making it suitable for bright indoor spaces.
TemperatureElephant's Ears prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F but can survive in temperatures as low as 30°F and as high as 85°F. It's essential to protect the plant from frost, as freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant. The ideal condition for Elephant's Ears is a consistently moderate temperature without drastic fluctuations.
PruningElephant's Ears should be pruned to remove dead or damaged leaves, which promotes healthy growth and prevents disease. Pruning can be done at any time, but it's most beneficial during the growing season. Trimming the flower stalks after blooming will also encourage more substantial foliage development.
CleaningAs needed
SoilElephant's Ear prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. A well-draining soil mix with organic matter, such as a blend of loam, compost, and perlite or pine bark, is ideal for promoting healthy growth.
RepottingElephant's Ear doesn't require frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years, or when the plant has outgrown its current pot and the roots are circling the bottom.
Humidity & MistingElephant's Ear thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. In dryer environments, occasional misting can help maintain these conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and mulch to retain moisture.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBergenia pacumbis, commonly known as Himalayan Bergenia, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in moist, well-drained soil, usually in shady areas. After germination, seedlings establish themselves and develop into juvenile plants with characteristic round, robust leaves that form a rosette. As the plant matures, it establishes a thick rhizome that allows for perennial growth, and it begins to produce flowering stalks on which small, pink-to-white flowers bloom in early to mid-spring. Following the flowering period, the flowers give way to fruit capsules that contain seeds, which once matured, are dispersed by various means, such as wind or water. Throughout its life, the Himalayan Bergenia exhibits vegetative growth by expanding its leaf rosette and rhizome, and in environments conducive to its growth, it can spread to form dense clumps. Bergenia pacumbis is a hardy plant that can survive through winter, with its foliage sometimes persisting depending on the harshness of the climate, and resumes its growth cycle with the arrival of warmer spring temperatures.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Bergenia crassifolia, commonly known as heartleaf bergenia, is through division. This is best done in early spring or autumn when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant ensuring a large root ball is maintained to minimize root disturbance. Gently tease apart individual crowns from the main plant, each with a good root system attached. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing previously, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. This straightforward approach harnesses the plant's natural tendency to clump and ensures a high success rate, creating new plants that are true to the parent's characteristics.
