Bergenia Bergenia 'Ballawley' clonal
ABOUT
Bergenia 'Ballawley', commonly known as elephant's ears due to its large, rounded leaves, is an attractive perennial plant. This clonal variety is noted for its lush foliage which tends to be glossy and can vary in color from green to bronze, particularly during the cooler months. The leaves are leathery in texture and grow in a low clump or rosette, giving the plant a dense and substantial presence in the garden. In the spring, elephant's ears produce striking flower stalks that rise above the foliage, blooming with clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers. The blossoms can be pink or even deeper shades, depending on the individual plant and the environment in which it is grown. These flowers are a contrast to the robust leaves and add a delicate charm to the plant's overall appearance. Overall, Bergenia 'Ballawley' is valued for both its evergreen foliage, which provides year-round interest, and its delightful spring blooms.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Elephant's Ears, Pigsqueak, Leather Bergenia, Heartleaf Bergenia
Common names
Bergenia 'Bressingham White', Bergenia 'Silberlicht', Bergenia cordifolia 'Ballawley'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Bergenia 'Ballawley' is Bergenia or pigsqueak. This plant is generally considered non-toxic to humans and does not typically cause serious symptoms if ingested. However, it's always advised to avoid eating ornamental plants as they are not intended for consumption, and individual sensitivities can vary.
To pets
The common name for Bergenia 'Ballawley' is Bergenia or pigsqueak. This plant is generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. However, ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. If your pet ingests Bergenia and exhibits symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it is recommended 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
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Bergenia 'Ballawley' offers attractive, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that provide year-round interest, particularly in winter when there's less color in the garden.
- Seasonal Flowers: It produces pink flowers in the spring, which add a splash of color to garden beds and borders.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, bergenias are relatively drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: Bergenia 'Ballawley' is easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and upkeep, ideal for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance plants.
- Pest Resistance: This plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it a hassle-free choice for gardeners.
- Tolerance of Various Soils: It adapts well to a variety of soil types, although it prefers moist, well-drained soils.
- Shade Tolerance: Bergenia 'Ballawley' can thrive in part shade, making it a versatile option for different garden areas.
- Ground Cover: Its dense growth habit makes it an effective ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and stabilize soil.
- Winter Interest: The leaves of Bergenia 'Ballawley' often turn bronzy-purple in the winter, adding interest in the cooler months.
- Attracts Pollinators: The spring blooms attract butterflies and other pollinators, benefiting the local ecosystem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Textile Dyeing: The roots of Bergenia can be used to create a natural dye for fabric, delivering soft pinks and reds depending on the mordant used.
- Garden Path Edging: Bergenia plants are excellent for edging garden paths due to their neat clumping growth, providing year-round greenery.
- Rock Gardens: Being resilient and low maintenance, they're a charming addition to rock gardens, where they can thrive amidst stones and gravel.
- Photography Prop: Their broad, glossy leaves and clusters of flowers can serve as a beautiful, natural backdrop for botanical photography.
- Frost Resistant Ground Cover: Ideal for cold climates as it can withstand frost and snow, maintaining ground cover throughout the seasons.
- Floral Arrangements: Cut flowers of Bergenia can last quite long in vases, providing a unique addition to indoor floral displays.
- Cultural Symbolism: In some cultures, Bergenia plants may symbolize endurance and perseverance, making them thoughtful gifts.
- Erosion Control: Bergenia's dense growth habit makes it suitable for stabilizing soil on slopes or areas prone to erosion.
- Drought-Tolerant Landscaping: They can be used in water-wise garden designs as they require minimal watering once established.
- Winter Interest: Bergenia retains its leaves in the winter, offering greenery and even some color in the dormant garden season.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bergenia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bergenia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance and Resilience: Bergenias, also known as 'elephant's ears' or 'pigsqueak,' are known for their resilience due to their robust leaves, which can withstand harsh conditions. This makes them a symbol of enduring tough times and bouncing back from adversity.
- Protection: The thick leaves of the elephant's ears plant can also symbolize protection, as they are resilient against pests and diseases.
- Adaptability: Elephant's ears have the ability to adapt to a wide range of climates and soils, symbolizing flexibility and the ability to thrive in various environments.
- Evergreen Beauty: Being an evergreen plant, bergenia signifies enduring and constant beauty throughout the year, regardless of the season.
WaterBergenia, commonly known as pigsqueak, should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In general, watering once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant should be sufficient, but this may vary based on climate and soil conditions. During particularly hot or dry periods, you may need to water more often. In contrast, reduce watering during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. It's critical not to overwater, as Bergenia is susceptible to root rot in soggy soil.
LightPigsqueak thrives best in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun if it's not too intense. Ideally, place the plant in a location where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade. This lighting condition helps to promote vibrant foliage without scorching the leaves. If grown indoors, a bright room with indirect light suits it well.
TemperaturePigsqueak is a hardy plant and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, surviving in conditions as cold as 0°F and as hot as 85°F. However, the ideal temperature range for pigsqueak is between 60°F and 75°F. Protect the plant from extreme cold by applying mulch or bringing it indoors if potted.
PruningPrune pigsqueak to remove dead or damaged leaves and to promote a neat appearance. This is best done in early spring before new growth starts. Periodic removal of spent flower stalks will encourage additional blooms. It is not necessary to prune Bergenia frequently; once a year is generally sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilElephant's Ears prefer a soil mix of equal parts loam, peat, and sand, ensuring good drainage, with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5.
RepottingElephant's Ears should generally be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingElephant's Ears thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, although they can tolerate lower humidity if necessary.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with well-draining soil mix.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade, shelter from strong winds, mulch well.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBergenia 'Bressingham Ruby', commonly known as Bressingham Ruby Bergenia, begins its life cycle as a seed, although it's often propagated by division. Upon germination, it grows a rosette of large, red-tinged leaves that persist through the year, defining its perennial nature. In early to mid-spring, it produces erect flower stalks with clusters of small, bell-shaped pink or red flowers, marking its reproductive stage. After flowering, the plant enters a phase of vegetative growth and leaf expansion throughout the summer. As temperatures cool in autumn, the foliage often becomes more intensely colored, exhibiting vibrant winter interest. Finally, in winter, Bressingham Ruby Bergenia becomes dormant, with the cycle beginning anew with the return of spring warmth and light.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: The Bergenia 'Bressingham Ruby', commonly referred to by its clonal name 'Ballawley', is best propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this plant. The most suitable time to divide Bressingham Ruby is in the spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant out of the ground using a spade. Gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, ensuring each section has a healthy amount of roots and at least one growing point. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were previously growing, spacing them about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. Water the new plants thoroughly to help establish them. This method allows gardeners to create new Bressingham Ruby plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant, maintaining its desirable traits.
