Elephant's Ears Bergenia 'Bach'
ABOUT
Bergenia 'Bach' is a perennial plant known for its robust and attractive features. It sports large, glossy, green leaves that take on a striking reddish-bronze hue in the colder months, providing year-round interest. The foliage is leathery in texture and forms a neat, clumping habit that serves as an elegant backdrop to the flowers. In the blooming season, it produces impressive clusters of bell-shaped flowers that are arranged on strong, upright stems and rise above the leafy base. These flowers boast a vibrant pink to purple color, which adds a bright splash of color to garden spaces. The blooms are known to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, adding to the dynamic nature of this garden favorite. Overall, Bergenia 'Bach' presents a lush, mounding appearance that can add a touch of sophistication to any planting scheme.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Pigsqueak, Elephant Ears, Heart-leaved Bergenia, Leather Bergenia, Bergenia
Common names
Bergenia 'Bach'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Bergenia 'Bach' is Elephant's Ears. There is limited specific information available with regard to Bergenia 'Bach' toxicity to humans. However, the genus Bergenia is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. While it may cause mild discomfort if ingested, such as an upset stomach or irritation of the mouth, significant toxicity is not commonly reported. It is always advisable to exercise caution and prevent ingestion, especially with young children who may be more sensitive. If any part of the plant is ingested and symptoms appear or if there is any concern, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
To pets
The common name for Bergenia 'Bach' is Elephant's Ears. Bergenia species are not commonly listed as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. The risk of serious toxicity is low if pets ingest parts of this plant. However, as with any non-food plants, ingestion can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in some animals. If a pet ingests Bergenia and shows any signs of distress, it is important 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
3
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: The Bergenia 'Bach' has large, glossy leaves that offer visual interest throughout the year.
- Seasonal Blooms: It produces small pink flowers in the spring, adding a splash of color to gardens.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and upkeep.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Cold Hardy: The plant is tolerant of cold temperatures and can survive in cooler climates.
- Pest Resistance: It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Versatility: Bergenia 'Bach' can be used in rock gardens, borders, and as groundcover, offering landscape design flexibility.
- Evergreen: It retains its leaves throughout the year, providing consistent garden interest.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Bergenia 'Bach' may contain compounds that help reduce inflammation in various parts of the body.
- Antimicrobial: It may possess substances that have the ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
- Diuretic: Some components of the plant could promote the excretion of urine, helping in conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney stones.
- Astringent: The astringent properties of the plant might be used to tone tissues and reduce bleeding or secretions in skin conditions and wounds.
- Antioxidant: Bergenia 'Bach' could contain antioxidants that help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Bergenia 'Bach' leaves can be used as natural dye substances due to their rich pigment, providing a range of colors from green to brown depending on the mordant used.
- The large leaves of the Bergenia provide excellent cover for small wildlife, offering a natural habitat to beneficial garden creatures.
- Dried Bergenia leaves can serve as a natural layer of mulch, helping to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds in the garden.
- These plants can be incorporated into flower arrangements to add bold foliage and texture to bouquets and floral decor.
- Due to their robust nature, Bergenia can be used in erosion control on slopes, as their root systems help stabilize the soil.
- They can be planted as ground cover under trees where other plants might struggle, due to their shade tolerance.
- Bergenia 'Bach' is sometimes used as a component in green roofs, contributing to biodiversity and roof insulation.
- Their leathery leaves resist damage from many pests, making them a low-maintenance option for garden borders and edging.
- The plant’s leaves can create a subtle backdrop in photography, especially useful in outdoor portrait sessions.
- In winter, the frost-resistant leaves of Bergenia can bring a touch of green to otherwise dormant 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, also known as the elephant's ears, is known for its large, robust leaves that persist through the winter, symbolizing endurance and resilience.
- Adaptability: Elephant's ears thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions, representing the ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments.
- Protection: With its thick foliage, the Bergenia plant provides shelter for smaller creatures, signifying protection and care for those in need.
- Healing: In some traditions, Bergenias are believed to have medicinal properties, symbolizing healing and the restoration of health.
WaterElephant's Ears should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. On average, this means you may need to water the plant every one to two weeks, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. During the growing season, in spring and summer, you might water with approximately 1 gallon every 7 to 10 days. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every two to three weeks with the same amount, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
LightElephant's Ears prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate some partial shade. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. A north-facing or east-facing window would be an ideal spot for these plants, providing them with the diffused light they thrive in. If grown outdoors, dappled shade under taller plants or trees can create the perfect light conditions.
TemperatureElephant's Ears are happiest in temperatures that range from 50°F to 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 30°F but should not be exposed to frost. The ideal temperature range should be maintained throughout the year for optimal growth. Sudden drops below the minimum can harm the plant, so it's best to keep them away from drafty windows or doors during the colder months.
PruningElephant's Ears should be pruned to remove wilted or dead leaves, which promotes healthy growth and improves air circulation. The best time to prune is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Pruning can be done every few months or as needed when you notice damaged or unhealthy foliage. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts, which will help prevent disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBergenia ciliata, commonly known as Hairy Bergenia, prefers well-draining, organically rich soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A good mix would include loamy garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage while retaining adequate moisture.
RepottingHairy Bergenia does not need frequent repotting. It's best to repot these plants every 3 to 4 years or when you notice that the plant has outgrown its current container.
Humidity & MistingHairy Bergenia thrives in average to high humidity conditions. While tolerant of a range of environments, maintaining a humidity level of around 50% is ideal for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; enrich soil with compost.
Life cycleThe Bergenia 'Bach', commonly known as Elephant's Ears, starts its life cycle when the seed germinates in spring or early summer, given the right conditions of moisture and temperature. After sprouting, the seedling goes through a vegetative stage, developing a rosette of large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that can withstand different weather conditions. The plant matures and enters its flowering stage usually by its second year, producing tall stems topped with clusters of pink flowers which attract pollinators and may occur in early to mid-spring. Post-pollination, fertilized flowers will set seed, completing the reproductive stage. Throughout the growing seasons, Bergenia 'Bach' will multiply by rhizome division, showcasing its clump-forming capacity as a perennial. In the fall, the leaves may turn an attractive bronze or red color before the plant enters dormancy during the winter, only to restart its cycle with the return of favorable weather conditions in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The Bergenia 'Bach', commonly referred to as Bergenia, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this plant. The best time for dividing Bergenia is in early spring or after the blooming period has finished, which is often in the fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground with a spade, ensuring a substantial amount of roots comes with each clump. Gently pry or cut through the rhizomes to separate the clumps, each with a couple of growing points or leaves. Replant the divisions promptly, spacing them about 12 inches (30 centimeters) apart to give them room to grow, at the same depth they were growing previously. Water them thoroughly after planting to help establish them in their new locations. This method is effective because Bergenias have a clumping habit, and division helps to rejuvenate overcrowded clumps while creating new plants.
