Silberlight Bergenia Bergenia 'Silberlicht'
ABOUT
Bergenia 'Silberlicht', also known as Silverlight Bergenia, is a robust and visually appealing perennial plant. This plant is celebrated for its impressive foliage and flowers. Silverlight Bergenia has large, glossy, leathery leaves that are rounded and somewhat heart-shaped, often with a slight wave or curl at the edges. These leaves are carried on upright stems and can have a striking appearance, especially when the leaves change color with the seasons. During cooler months, the foliage typically takes on a bronzy hue or purplish tint, which adds to its ornamental value. In spring, the plant produces attention-grabbing flower spikes that bear clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers. The flowers of Silverlight Bergenia have a delicate, almost porcelain-like appearance and are typically a soft pink color that lightens to white as they mature, lending the plant its name 'Silberlicht', which translates to 'silver light'. The overall aesthetic of the Silverlight Bergenia is one of lush greenery with seasonal color interest and charming blossoms that rise above the foliage, providing a layered look. Its texture is substantial due to the thick leaves, and the plant tends to have a clumping habit, which makes for dense, attractive ground cover. The bloom time is usually in the early months of the year, which allows the plant to stand out in the garden when many other plants have yet to wake from their winter dormancy.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Pigsqueak, Elephant's Ears, Large Rockfoil
Common names
Bergenia 'Silberlicht'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Bergenia 'Silberlicht' is 'Pigsqueak'. It is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, even non-toxic plants can sometimes cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities or be a choking hazard, especially for children.
To pets
Pigsqueak is also generally considered non-toxic to pets like cats and dogs. While it is not expected to cause serious harm, ingestion can still potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if consumed in large amounts. It's always prudent to monitor your pets if they have ingested this plant and consult a veterinarian if any adverse reactions are observed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Bergenia 'Silberlicht' can tolerate periods of dry weather.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond basic watering and the occasional removal of spent flowers or damaged foliage.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Year-Round Interest: Evergreen foliage provides visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom.
- Tolerant of Shade: Can grow in shaded areas where other plants may struggle, offering versatility in garden design.
- Cold Hardy: Resistant to cold temperatures and can survive in colder climates without extensive winter protection.
- Soil Versatility: Adapts to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil.
- Deer Resistant: Generally not favored by deer, which can be advantageous in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Ground Cover: Dense foliage can help suppress weeds, reducing the need for herbicides.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Bergenia 'Silberlicht' may contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation.
- Antimicrobial: The plant has been known to have antimicrobial properties that can help in fighting certain bacteria and fungi.
- Diuretic effects: Traditionally, Bergenia 'Silberlicht' may be used to promote urine production and can benefit urinary tract health.
- Astringent: The astringent properties of the plant may be helpful for toning and tightening tissues.
- Antioxidant: Bergenia 'Silberlicht' may possess antioxidant compounds that help in neutralizing free radicals in the body.
- Antilithic: It is claimed to help in preventing the formation or facilitating the removal of stones in the urinary system.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The large leaves of Bergenia can be used as a natural wrapping material for small packages or to wrap food items for cooking, similar to how banana leaves are used in some cultures.
- In the garden, Bergenia can serve as ground cover, forming dense mats that suppress weeds and reduce soil erosion.
- The thick, leathery leaves can be used in crafts, such as making impressions in clay or concrete for decorative stepping stones or garden paths.
- Bergenia leaves change color in the fall, providing an aesthetically pleasing element to dried flower arrangements or potpourri mixes.
- Their robust nature allows them to be utilized as living mulch, providing insulation to the soil and nearby plants during colder seasons.
- Bergenia can be planted on slopes or banks to stabilize the soil and prevent landslides or erosion with their extensive root systems.
- The plant's flowers can be used as a natural dye source, offering hues of pink to fabrics and yarns.
- As an edging plant, Bergenia can create defined borders along pathways, flower beds, or lawn edges, highlighting garden architecture.
- Their evergreen foliage can be included in winter gardens or as a contrasting backdrop for seasonal displays in public areas and parks.
- In educational environments, Bergenia can be incorporated into lessons on botany and ecology, as it exhibits seasonal changes and has a distinctive growth pattern.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiBergenia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityBergenia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance and Tenacity: The Bergenia 'Silberlicht', commonly known as "Saxifrage" or "Pigsqueak", is a robust plant that can withstand tough conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and persist through challenges.
- Protection: With its large leaves, Saxifrage is often seen as a symbol of shelter and protection, offering a safe haven for smaller creatures and representing the concept of safeguarding loved ones.
- Adaptability: This plant's adaptability to different soil types and levels of sunlight reflects the idea of being versatile and able to thrive in various environments.
WaterElephant's Ears should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil becomes dry to the touch, which typically means once every week or two, depending on climate, humidity, and indoor conditions. It is better to water deeply and less frequently than shallow and often, ensuring that the plant receives around 1-2 gallons of water at each interval. During the winter, when growth slows, reduce the frequency of watering to match the plant's decreased requirements. Always avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot, by allowing excess water to drain away and never leaving the plant in standing water.
LightFor Elephant's Ears, the ideal light conditions include a bright spot with indirect sunlight or partial shade. They can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight but prefer to be shielded during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorch. A north or east-facing window is often an excellent location, providing the diffused light these plants prefer for optimal growth.
TemperatureElephant's Ears thrive best in temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to protect the plant from extreme cold and draughts, as well as excessive heat from sources such as radiators or air conditioning vents.
PruningElephant's Ears can be pruned to remove spent leaves or to shape the plant. Prune in early spring or after flowering to encourage new growth and improve air circulation. Pruning can be done once a year or as needed, removing any discolored or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilPigsqueak prefers a soil mix with good drainage, composed of garden soil, compost, and perlite or pumice. It thrives in a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingPigsqueak doesn't require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its pot.
Humidity & MistingPigsqueak is adaptable but prefers moderate humidity levels; it does not require excessively high humidity to thrive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, away from direct sun.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, protect from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBergenia 'Silberlicht', commonly known as Siberian Tea, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate, typically in a moist, well-draining soil environment. Once germinated, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants with broad, thick leaves forming a low, evergreen rosette. This durable perennial then matures and enters the flowering stage, typically producing clusters of delicate, bell-shaped white to pale-pink flowers in the spring. After the flowering period, Bergenia 'Silberlicht' sets seeds that are dispersed by wind or wildlife, completing the reproductive cycle. Throughout the growing seasons, the plant expands through clumping, developing more shoots around the base. In winter, the leaves may take on a bronze-purple hue, and the plant enters a period of dormancy, though it remains evergreen, until the cycle restarts in spring with new growth and subsequent flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Bergenia 'Silberlicht', commonly known as Silberlicht Bergenia, is typically propagated by division. The best time for propagating this perennial is in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, one should carefully dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep the root ball intact. The clumps of the plant can then be gently pulled apart by hand or separated with a sharp knife if necessary, ensuring that each new section has at least one growth bud. Replant the divisions immediately, maintaining the same soil depth as before and watering thoroughly. Divisions should be spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. This method is advantageous as it is simple and also helps rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous.
