Leather Bergenia Bergenia purpurascens var. delavayi
ABOUT
Bergenia purpurascens var. delavayi, commonly known as purplish bergenia, is noted for its distinctive and attractive appearance. The plant is characterized by its lush foliage and striking flowers. The leaves of the purplish bergenia are large, glossy, and leathery with a rounded or heart-shaped form. During the colder months, the foliage takes on a remarkable transformation, changing colors to shades of reddish-purple, which enhances its ornamental appeal. In the blooming season, purplish bergenia produces tall flower stalks that rise above the foliage, and these are adorned with clusters of bell-shaped flowers. The flowers themselves typically exhibit a deep pink to purplish color, creating a striking contrast against the foliage. The overall impression of the plant is one of robustness and vibrant color, making it a popular choice for gardeners who wish to add visual interest and texture to their garden beds or borders. Its evergreen nature ensures that it provides year-round beauty, even when not in flower.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Delavay's Bergenia, Purple Bergenia
Common names
Bergenia delavayi, Saxifraga delavayi, Bergenia stracheyi var. delavayi.
ToxicityTo humans
The toxicity of Bergenia to humans is not widely documented, and there are few to no reports of serious adverse effects from ingestion. However, due to the general lack of comprehensive studies, it's advisable to be cautious and avoid ingesting this plant. If parts of the Bergenia were to be consumed, it could potentially result in gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, as many plants can be irritants to the digestive system. As with any potential ingestion of a non-food plant, if symptoms arise, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
Bergenia is not typically known to be a toxic plant to pets. However, as with most plants not intended for consumption, it could cause mild gastrointestinal upset in animals if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling, though such symptoms are more likely due to the novelty of the substance rather than specific toxins. If you suspect your pet has ingested substantial amounts of Bergenia and is showing symptoms, it is best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape aesthetics - Bergenia adds visual interest to gardens with its large, rounded leaves and striking purple-pink flowers.
- Low maintenance - Once established, it requires minimal care, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Drought tolerance - It can survive in drier conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold hardiness - It is able to withstand cold temperatures, making it suitable for cooler climates.
- Erosion control - The plant's dense growth habit can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
- Attracts pollinators - The flowers can attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Ground cover - It can be used to cover bare ground, suppressing weeds and reducing landscape maintenance.
- Seasonal interest - The plant offers year-round interest, with evergreen leaves and seasonal blooms.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Bergenia purpurascens var. delavayi is thought to have compounds that may reduce inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: The plant may have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which could help in preventing or treating infections.
- Antioxidant: It may contain antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radicals.
- Diuretic effects: Traditionally, the plant might have been used to promote urine production, potentially aiding in the elimination of toxins.
- Renal calculi treatment: In traditional medicine, it might have been used to help in the management of kidney stones.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Bergenia leaves can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding shades of yellow, green, or brown depending on mordant.
- The large leaves of Bergenia can be utilized as improvised wrappers for food during outdoor cooking or storing.
- Some cultures use crushed Bergenia leaves to create a vibrant paint for artwork and traditional crafts.
- Bergenia's sturdy foliage may serve as a protective layer for garden plants, offering a shield from pests or frost.
- When dried, the leaves of Bergenia can be integrated into potpourri mixes for a subtle natural scent and texture.
- Bergenia plants can be grown as ground cover to prevent soil erosion due to their dense foliage and root system.
- The leathery leaves are sometimes used in floral arrangements as a long-lasting green backdrop.
- The thick roots of Bergenia can be carved into small stamps for block-printing in arts and crafts.
- In fish tanks, Bergenia leaves may be submerged to add natural decor and shelter for small fish or invertebrates.
- Gardeners can use trimmed Bergenia leaves as a natural mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bergenia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bergenia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hardiness: Bergenia purpurascens var. delavayi, commonly known as Bergenia, is known for its robust nature, symbolizing the ability to withstand tough conditions and adversity.
- Endurance: Surviving in a variety of climates, the Bergenia represents endurance and the capacity to endure challenges over time.
- Adaptability: Given its capacity to adapt to different environments, the Bergenia can symbolize versatility and the skill to adjust to new situations.
- Evergreen Beauty: As an evergreen plant, Bergenia can also symbolize lasting beauty and eternal values that persist regardless of changing circumstances.
WaterFor the Leather Bergenia, ensure that the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water this plant deeply once a week, allowing the water to penetrate several inches into the soil. During the active growing season in spring and summer, you might need to water twice a week if the weather is particularly dry or hot. In winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the plant's environment and if the top layer of the soil is dry to the touch. On average, provide about half a gallon of water per watering session to maintain optimal soil moisture.
LightLeather Bergenia thrives in partial shade to full shade conditions, avoiding direct afternoon sunlight which can be too intense. The ideal spot is one that offers dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for most of the day, ensuring the leaves do not get damaged by sunburn. An east-facing or north-facing garden spot is typically suitable for this plant's lighting needs.
TemperatureLeather Bergenia prefers a cool to moderate temperature range, thriving best between 60°F and 75°F. Although it can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F, prolonged exposure to such cold conditions may damage the plant. It's crucial to protect the plant from extreme heat as well, as temperatures consistently above 80°F can stress this species.
PruningLeather Bergenia should be pruned to remove old, damaged, or spent leaves and to encourage new growth. Prune in early spring before new growth begins, which will refresh the plant and maintain a tidy appearance. Deadhead spent flower stalks after blooming to foster additional blooms and prevent self-seeding. This plant does not require heavy pruning; simply cut back as necessary to keep it looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilElephant's Ears prefer a well-draining, humus-rich soil mix with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A good recipe for soil mix is one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingElephant's Ears should be repotted every two to three years or when it outgrows its pot. Early spring, before the onset of new growth, is the best time to repot this plant.
Humidity & MistingElephant's Ears thrive in moderate to high humidity levels. They prefer humidity around 50% or higher but will tolerate lower levels if not subjected to hot, dry air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in indirect light, maintain moderate humidity, and water when soil is dry.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade, sheltered from wind, and in moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleBergenia purpurascens var. delavayi, commonly known as Delavay's Bergenia, begins its life as a seed, germinating when soil temperatures and moisture conditions are optimal. It develops into a seedling, establishing a rosette of leathery, dark-green leaves. As it matures, the plant forms a rhizomatous clump which expands gradually through vegetative reproduction. In spring, it enters the flowering stage, producing pink to reddish-purple flowers on stout stems above the foliage. After pollination, typically by insects, it sets seed, which completes the reproductive cycle. Throughout the year, Delavay's Bergenia is a perennial, showing seasonal growth and dormancy depending on the climate, usually with leaves that persist and offer visual interest even in winter.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Bergenia purpurascens var. delavayi, commonly known as purple Bergenia, is most commonly propagated through division, which is best carried out in the spring as new growth begins to appear. The division method involves gently separating the plant's clumps into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has at least one growth point or "eye," and a portion of the root system intact. These sections can then be replanted immediately in well-draining soil, at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the newly planted divisions well to help establish them. This method is advantageous because it maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and allows for quick establishment of new plants.
