Fringed Bergenia Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton'
ABOUT
The Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', commonly known as hairy bergenia, is a perennial plant well-recognized for its attractive and distinctive foliage that can add a lush texture to garden spaces. The bergenia boasts rounded, heart-shaped leaves which are quite large and possess a unique, bristly or hairy appearance, an attribute that distinguishes it from other bergenia varieties. Its leaves tend to have a rich green color that can turn to attractive reddish-bronze hues during the cooler months, offering seasonal interest throughout the year. In addition to its bold foliage, the hairy bergenia produces striking flowers. These blossoms are typically arranged in clusters on sturdy stems that rise above the foliage. The flowers themselves are bell-shaped and are often found in shades of pink, adding a graceful contrast against the dense leaves. They tend to bloom in early spring, providing a welcome burst of color after the winter season. The plant is known for its clump-forming habit, which means it grows in tight groups, creating dense patches of ground cover. Due to the fullness of its leaves and flowers, it can serve as an excellent plant for filling in garden spaces with lively textures and color. Its overall appearance is one of robustness and vigorous growth, with leaves providing evergreen coverage in milder climates, and flower stems emerging as a herald of the spring season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Hairy Bergenia, Fringed Bergenia, Winter Blooming Bergenia, Wilton's Bergenia
Common names
Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton'.
ToxicityTo humans
Bergenia, including Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, like with any plant, individuals may have varying levels of sensitivity, and it is always prudent to avoid ingesting plants that are not confirmed to be edible. If any part of the plant were ingested, it is unlikely to cause serious harm, but, as a precaution, seeking medical advice is recommended in the event of any unexpected symptoms following ingestion.
To pets
Bergenia, including Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially cause mild stomach upset in some animals. If your pet ingests any part of this plant, monitor for signs of discomfort, such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is always best to keep an eye on your pet and consult with a veterinarian if any adverse reactions occur.
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
Himalayas
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', commonly known as hairy bergenia, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its large, rounded leaves and pink flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, hairy bergenia can tolerate periods of dryness, making it a water-wise choice for landscapes.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant thrives in partial shade, making it an ideal groundcover for areas under trees or beside buildings.
- Cold Resistance: Hairy bergenia is hardy in cold temperatures, making it a robust perennial for cooler climates.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once established, needing only occasional watering and the removal of spent flowers or damaged foliage.
- Seasonal Interest: With its evergreen leaves and springtime blooms, hairy bergenia provides year-round interest in the garden.
- Soil Adaptability: This plant is adaptable to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained, humus-rich soils.
- Attracting Wildlife: The flowers of hairy bergenia attract pollinators like bees, providing ecological benefits.
- Erosion Control: Its dense foliage and root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
- Versatility: Hairy bergenia can be used in various landscape settings, including borders, rock gardens, and woodland gardens.
Medical Properties- Antilithic - Believed to help in dissolving and expelling kidney stones.
- Diuretic - May increase the excretion of urine.
- Anti-infective - Possesses properties that may help in preventing infections.
- Antioxidant - Contains compounds that may combat oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory - Could potentially reduce inflammation in body tissues.
- Hemostatic - Might help in stopping bleeding.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', commonly known as hairy bergenia, can be used as a natural dye source, providing shades of brown and yellow for fabrics and yarns.
- As ground cover, hairy bergenia is employed in landscaping because of its evergreen leaves and ability to spread over time, creating a full, lush appearance.
- The large, leathery leaves of the hairy bergenia have historically been used as a natural wrapping material for food during cooking or storage, similar to how banana leaves are used in some cultures.
- Due to its robust nature, hairy bergenia can be effective in preventing soil erosion on slopes and banks, helping to stabilize the ground with its root system.
- The plant serves as a late winter or early spring nectar source for pollinators when not many plants are flowering, thus supporting local ecosystems.
- As an ornamental element, the leaves of hairy bergenia can be included in floral arrangements, adding a distinct texture with their thick, waxy appearance.
- Hairy bergenia's evergreen foliage can offer winter interest in otherwise barren gardens due to its resistance to cold and retention of leaves throughout the year.
- The dried leaves have been utilized in crafting, particularly in the creation of eco-friendly and biodegradable decorative items.
- Creative gardeners have used the texture and shape of hairy bergenia leaves to make natural art, such as leaf casting, where the impression of leaves is left in concrete or plaster.
- In educational settings, hairy bergenia can be used to teach children about plant biology and propagation, as it is easily divided and can demonstrate vegetative reproduction.
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: The Bergenia (commonly known as "Elephant's Ears" due to their large ear-like leaves) is known for its robustness and ability to withstand tough conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure challenges and remain steadfast.
- Protection: With its large leaves, the Bergenia has been seen as a symbol of shelter and protection, representing the natural cover and safety it provides, much like an umbrella or shield.
- Adaptability: Elephant's Ears thrive in various climates and soil conditions, representing adaptability and versatility in the face of change.
- Transformation: As some Bergenia species change leaf color throughout the seasons, they symbolize transformation and growth, reminding us of life's constant evolution.
WaterThe Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', commonly known as fringed Bergenia, requires even moisture and should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this may mean watering approximately once a week, but this frequency can vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. It is best to use roughly one to two gallons of water each time you water the plant, ensuring that the water penetrates deep into the soil to encourage healthy root growth. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. During winter, water less frequently, as the plant's water requirements decrease.
LightFringed Bergenia thrives in partial shade to filtered sunlight, making it an ideal choice for a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. This plant can also adapt to full shade, but it may not bloom as prolifically. Avoid placing it in direct, harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves.
TemperatureFringed Bergenia prefers cool to moderate temperature conditions and typically thrives in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate temperatures down to approximately 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from harsh, wintry conditions if possible. Ideally, maintaining a consistent temperature within its favored range will promote healthy growth.
PruningPruning the fringed Bergenia is essential to remove spent flowers and encourage new growth. Deadhead the flowering stalks after blooms have faded and trim away any damaged or dead foliage. Pruning is best done in the spring as new foliage appears. Prune every other year or as needed to maintain the plant's shape and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilElephant's Ears prefer moist, organically rich soil with good drainage and a pH range from 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or compost, and one part perlite or sand is ideal to meet these conditions.
RepottingElephant's Ears should generally be repotted every two to three years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.
Humidity & MistingElephant's Ears thrive in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%, which helps maintain their lush foliage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Elephant's Ears in bright, indirect light with moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds, keep soil moist.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBergenia ciliata 'Wilton', commonly known as hairy bergenia, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in spring when soil temperatures warm. Seedlings emerge and develop into a rosette of large, hairy leaves that persist through the growing season. The plant establishes a strong root system, often sending out rhizomes that allow it to spread and form clumps. In late winter to early spring, the mature hairy bergenia sends up flowering stalks topped with clusters of pink or white flowers, which can attract pollinators and potentially lead to seed set if conditions are favorable. After flowering, seed pods may develop and, once dried, can disperse seeds for new plants to begin the cycle again. Throughout the life cycle, the plant undergoes periods of active growth in warmer seasons and dormancy during colder seasons, ensuring its survival and ability to regenerate year after year.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Bergenia ciliata 'Wilton', commonly known as Hairy Bergenia, is often propagated by division. The ideal time to propagate by division is in early spring or fall. The process is quite straightforward and involves gently lifting the plant from the ground with a shovel, taking care to avoid excessive damage to the root system. Once out of the ground, portions of the plant with at least one growing point, or "eye", can be separated either by hand or with the aid of a knife. These divided sections should then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally in a moist, well-drained soil, ensuring that the eyes are just above the soil surface. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. This method allows for the plant to quickly establish and resume growth, offering a simple and effective way to produce new plants.
