Bergenia Bergenia 'Bressingham White'
ABOUT
Bergenia 'Bressingham White', commonly known as elephant's ears due to its large, rounded leaves, is an attractive perennial known for its robust and glossy foliage. The leaves are rich green and have a leathery texture, often turning to a reddish or bronzy color in the fall, adding to the plant’s seasonal interest. In spring, 'Bressingham White' boasts of elegant white flowers that cluster on top of strong, thick stems, rising above the foliage like a delicate froth. These blooms give a bright and fresh appearance, adding a touch of lightness to the garden. The flowers may attract pollinators, such as bees, enhancing the plant's ornamental value. The visual appeal of Bergenia 'Bressingham White' is further magnified by its clumping habit, where it forms a dense and tidy mound, giving it a lush and substantial presence in garden landscapes. This plant is recognized for its ability to offer year-round interest, thanks to its evergreen nature in many climates.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Pigsqueak, Elephant's Ears, Heart-leaved Bergenia, Leather Bergenia, Megasea
Common names
Bergenia 'Bressingham White'.
ToxicityTo humans
Bergenia 'Bressingham White', commonly known as Bergenia, is not widely considered toxic to humans. There is a lack of evidence suggesting significant toxicity or poisoning from the ingestion of this plant. However, as with many plants, individual reactions can vary, and it is generally not recommended to consume any part of ornamental plants due to the potential for mild stomach upset or allergic reactions in some individuals.
To pets
Bergenia, the common name for Bergenia 'Bressingham White', is not listed as a toxic plant for pets such as cats and dogs by major animal poison control resources. Therefore, it is generally considered non-toxic to pets. However, any plant material if ingested in large quantities can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in some pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of any plant, it's advisable to contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Bergenia 'Bressingham White' is known for its beautiful white flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens.
- Evergreen Foliage: It maintains its lush, green leaves throughout the year, offering consistent visual interest even when not in bloom.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, the plant is quite tolerant of dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care, making it a convenient choice for busy gardeners or those looking for low-maintenance landscaping.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant can thrive in shaded areas where many other plants might struggle, allowing for gardening flexibility.
- Pest Resistance: Bergenia is generally resistant to pests, meaning less effort and expense in pest control.
- Cold Hardy: It can withstand cold temperatures and is suitable for planting in a variety of climates.
- Ground Cover: Its growth habit can provide effective ground cover, helping to suppress weeds and stabilize soil.
- Seasonal Interest: With seasonal changes, the leaves can take on a bronze hue, adding a different dimension to the garden landscape.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers can attract bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The large leaves of Bergenia 'Bressingham White' can be used as natural wrappers for small garden items such as seeds or homemade fertilizers when storing or gifting.
- Dried Bergenia leaves, due to their leathery texture, can be used in crafts for creating eco-friendly decorations or bookmarks.
- The clumps of Bergenia 'Bressingham White' can serve as a natural border to delineate spaces or pathways in a garden setting.
- During the off-season, the evergreen foliage of the Bergenia provides winter interest in gardens, offering a green contrast against barren landscapes.
- The plant can be used in flower arranging as its sturdy and glossy leaves provide excellent backing and contrast to more delicate flowers.
- Bergenia 'Bressingham White' can be used to create a living mulch under taller plants, suppressing weeds and helping to retain soil moisture.
- Fallen Bergenia petals can be scattered over tables or walkways for a decorative effect during outdoor events or weddings.
- The robust root system of Bergenia can help stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion in areas with loose soil.
- When planted en masse, Bergenias can act as a habitat for small wildlife, offering shelter to insects and ground-nesting birds.
- Bergenia 'Bressingham White' can be potted and placed on patios or balconies for ornamental purposes, especially in regions where it is too cold to grow tropical foliage plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bergenia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bergenia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Bergenia plants are known for their hardiness and ability to adapt to different environmental conditions. 'Bressingham White', similarly, symbolizes the ability to thrive in challenging circumstances.
- Endurance: With its evergreen leaves that persist through winter, Bergenia represents endurance and the capacity to withstand hardship.
- Protection: The thick, leathery leaves of Bergenia can suggest protection and shelter, symbolizing a safe haven or a protective influence in one's life.
WaterElephant's Ears should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. During the growing season, this might mean watering every week with about 1 gallon of water per plant, depending on the weather conditions and soil type. In the winter, reduce watering to every few weeks, or when the soil is dry to the touch, to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging. Always water directly at the base rather than overhead to keep the leaves dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightElephant's Ears thrive in a spot with partial shade where they receive filtered sunlight or morning sun and afternoon shade. Avoid placing them in full sun, as the strong rays can scorch the foliage. A location that provides dappled sunlight underneath high trees or a north-facing spot with bright, indirect light would be ideal for this plant's light requirements.
TemperatureElephant's Ears prefer a temperature range between 60-75°F, but they can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F and as high as 85°F. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below freezing as it can damage the foliage. The ideal temperature conditions for these perennials ensure they remain vibrant and encourage their continued growth through the seasons.
PruningElephant's Ears require minimal pruning, mainly to remove any spent flowers or damaged leaves to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the foliage to the ground if it becomes damaged by frost or if you want to tidy up the plant for the new growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Bergenia, commonly known as 'Pigsqueak', should be rich, moist, and well-draining, with an addition of organic matter like compost. A soil pH for Pigsqueak should be neutral to slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingPigsqueak, or Bergenia 'Bressingham White', generally does not require frequent repotting and can be carried out every 3 to 5 years as the plant is quite hardy and can tolerate being pot-bound.
Humidity & MistingPigsqueak thrives in average household humidity levels; there is no need for special humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; water when top soil dries out.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from harsh sun, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBergenia 'Bressingham White', also known as Bressingham White Bergenia, begins its life cycle as a seed, which, once sown in fertile, well-drained soil, germinates to give rise to a young seedling. The seedling then develops into a vegetative plant, forming a clump of large, glossy, evergreen leaves that are able to withstand winter temperatures. During spring, it matures and produces robust flower stalks with clusters of bell-shaped, white flowers, transitioning into the reproductive stage. After pollination, typically accomplished by insects, the flowers develop into capsules containing seeds. Once the seeds mature, they are dispersed by various means such as wildlife or wind, allowing the plant to propagate. The Bressingham White Bergenia is a perennial, so after flowering, it retreats into a period of dormancy over the colder months, conserving energy to repeat this cycle the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Bergenia 'Bressingham White', commonly known as Bergenias or Elephant's Ears, is typically propagated through division. The best time to propagate by division is in either spring or early fall when the plant is not in active growth. To divide a Bergenias, you first carefully dig up the clump, trying to keep the root ball intact. Then, using a sharp knife or a spade, slice the plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least one growth bud and a portion of the root system. These divisions can then be immediately replanted in a prepared area of the garden, spaced at least 12 inches (about 30 cm) apart to give them room to grow. It's important to water the new divisions deeply after planting to help establish them.
