Fringed Bergenia Bergenia ciliata
ABOUT
Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as the hairy Bergenia, is a robust perennial plant. It is known for its distinctive foliage and attractive flowers. The leaves of the hairy Bergenia are particularly notable; they are large, rounded, and have a leathery texture. Metallic green on the top with a glossy sheen, the leaves are covered with fine hairs, which give them a soft, velvety feeling when touched. In the colder months, the leaves of this plant often take on a striking change in color, transforming to lovely shades of red and bronze, providing year-round interest in the garden. The flowering stems emerge from the base of the plant, carrying clusters of bell-shaped flowers. These flowers are often a charming shade of pink and are arranged in a tiered fashion on the stem, providing a showy display in the blooming season. Additionally, the hairy Bergenia displays a robust nature with strong stems and a tough constitution that can weather different garden conditions. Its overall appearance can be described as lush and verdant, making a bold statement wherever it grows. The visual impact of the plant is further enhanced by the contrast between its plush foliage and delicate-looking flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
Fringed Bergenia, Hairy Bergenia, Winter Blooming Bergenia
Common names
Bergenia stracheyi, Saxifraga ciliata, Saxifraga ligulata, Megasea ciliata, Bergenia ligulata.
ToxicityTo humans
Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as hairy bergenia, does not have a well-documented profile regarding its toxicity to humans. Most sources do not report this plant as being toxic. However, consuming any plant material might cause a reaction in certain individuals due to allergies or sensitivities. As with many plants, it is recommended to avoid ingesting parts of hairy bergenia unless it is deemed safe by qualified experts. If ingested, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or other symptoms if an individual has a particular sensitivity to the plant. It is always best to err on the side of caution and keep plants away from children who might ingest them out of curiosity.
To pets
Hairy bergenia does not have a common reputation for being toxic to pets. However, the lack of specific information regarding its toxicity might not guarantee safety. As with any non-food plant, pets might experience gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of hairy bergenia, especially if they are not accustomed to it or if they consume large amounts. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. It is advisable to keep an eye on pets around this plant and prevent them from ingesting it to avoid any potential issues. If a pet does ingest hairy bergenia and shows adverse symptoms, contacting a veterinarian would be a prudent course of action.
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, commonly known as the hairy Bergenia, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its attractive, glossy leaves and clusters of pink or white flowers.
- Low Maintenance: Being a hardy perennial, it requires minimal care and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions with little attention.
- Ground Cover: The dense foliage of the hairy Bergenia makes it an effective ground cover, preventing weed growth and soil erosion.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Cold Resistance: The hairy Bergenia is capable of surviving cold temperatures and can be grown in temperate regions with harsh winters.
- Shade Tolerance: It can grow well in shady areas where other plants might struggle, making it ideal for underplanting beneath trees and shrubs.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the hairy Bergenia are known to attract bees and other pollinators, thereby supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: With evergreen leaves in milder climates and flowers that bloom early in the spring, this plant provides year-round interest in the garden.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Bergenia ciliata may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Anti-lithic: It is traditionally used to help dissolve and remove kidney stones.
- Antimicrobial: The plant possesses properties that can help fight against microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.
- Hepatoprotective: Bergenia ciliata may help in protecting the liver from damage.
- Antioxidant: It contains compounds that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as 'Pigsqueak', can be utilized as a natural dye, giving a range of colors from yellow to green depending on the mordant used in the dyeing process.
- The leathery leaves of Pigsqueak can serve as book covers or as ornamental additions to handmade papers, adding texture and durability.
- In colder regions, Pigsqueak leaves are sometimes used to create eco-friendly, free-form ice sculptures by freezing the foliage in layers of ice for garden art.
- The robust leaves of Bergenia ciliata can be used as natural sandpaper for smoothing wooden surfaces or for crafting purposes.
- Fresh or dried leaves of Pigsqueak can be incorporated into potpourris for their shape and when mixed with fragrant herbs, contribute to the overall aroma.
- The tannins in Pigsqueak leaves can be extracted to create a homemade ink used for writing or artistic endeavors.
- Due to their thickness and texture, the leaves of Bergenia ciliata can be used as natural coasters or placeholders on a rustic-themed dining table.
- When dried, Pigsqueak leaves make for interesting additions to collage art or can be used in pressed flower arrangements because of their distinctive veining patterns.
- Dried crushed leaves of Pigsqueak may serve as a filler material for homemade dolls or as an organic component in mixed-media artwork.
- Unconventionally, the large leaves of Bergenia ciliata can be used to mimic sound effects, such as footsteps on grass or rustling in film and theatrical productions.
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: Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as Bergenia, possesses leathery leaves that are capable of withstanding harsh conditions, thus symbolizing endurance and resilience.
- Protection: With its thick foliage, Bergenia is seen as offering a protective barrier, which can symbolize shelter and safety.
- Adaptability: As Bergenia thrives in a variety of climates and conditions, it can represent the ability to adapt to changing environments and circumstances.
- Healing: Bergenia has a history of medicinal uses, making it a symbol of healing and recovery.
WaterHairy Bergenia requires consistent moisture, so it’s important to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. Typically, this will mean watering about once a week, but this may vary depending on environmental conditions. Make sure to water deeply, providing about 1-2 gallons for outdoor plants to encourage deep root growth. During hot and dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler, wetter periods, you can water less often. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and the pot has drainage holes if grown indoors.
LightHairy Bergenia thrives best in partial shade to full shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive filtered sunlight or dappled shade, avoiding direct afternoon sun which can scorch its leaves. An ideal location could be under the canopy of larger trees or on the north side of a building where it receives some morning sun but is protected during the hottest part of the day.
TemperatureHairy Bergenia enjoys a moderate temperature range and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F and as high as 75°F. However, it thrives best when the temperature is maintained between 60°F and 70°F. The plant is resilient to colder climates and can withstand frost, but consistent extreme heat can cause stress and damage to Hairy Bergenia.
PruningPrune Hairy Bergenia to remove dead or damaged foliage and to maintain a tidy appearance. This is best done in early spring before new growth starts. You can also trim back the flower stalks once they’ve finished blooming to redirect the plant's energy to foliage growth. It's not necessary to prune Hairy Bergenia often; once a year should be enough to keep the plant healthy and attractive.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Bergenia, commonly known as Elephant's Ears, a well-draining soil mix is essential, comprising a mixture of loam, compost, and sand to facilitate adequate drainage. The ideal pH for Elephant's Ears should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.8 to 7.2, ensuring the plant can absorb nutrients effectively.
RepottingElephant's Ears should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Repotting is best done in the spring, just before the growing season begins, to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingElephant's Ears prefer moderate to high humidity levels. They thrive in environments with humidity levels above 50%. However, they are adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity if necessary, provided their soil moisture is maintained correctly.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Elephant's Ears in bright, indirect light and ensure the soil is well-draining.
Outdoor
Plant Elephant's Ears in partial shade and protect from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleBergenia ciliata, also known as the Hairy Bergenia, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in moist soil, preferably in partial shade. Seedlings emerge and develop into rosettes of large, rounded, hairy leaves that persist through the growing season. In the spring, mature plants send up flowering stems with clusters of pink or white bell-shaped flowers. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into capsules containing numerous small seeds. Throughout the summer, these seeds mature and are eventually dispersed by various means, such as wind or water, or sometimes by passing animals. The plant then goes into a dormant phase during winter, although the evergreen leaves may persist, and reemerges the following spring to repeat the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
For Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as hairy bergenia, the most popular method of propagation is by division. Typically, division is best done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not actively flowering. To propagate by division, gardeners should carefully dig up the plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible, and gently pull apart the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring each new section has a piece of the root system attached. The divisions should then be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Adequate watering after replanting helps the divisions establish more quickly. This method allows for straight forward multiplication of the plants and ensures that the new plants will be true to the parent plant in their characteristics.
