Bergenia

Bergenia (also called elephant ear or leather-leaved plant) is a very hardy, decorative perennial prized for its large, persistent leaves and pink flowers in spring.

✅ Main features

Type: perennial, ground cover

Height: 20–40 cm

Leaves: large, rounded, glossy, persistent in winter

they can turn red-bronze in autumn/winter

Flowers: pink, white, red, in panicles

Flowering period: March–May (very early in the season)

🌱 Planting and conditions

Light: penumbra → shadow; tolerates the sun if it has moist soil

Soil: moist, well-drained, slightly acid-neutral

Watering: moderate; drought tolerant after installation

Planting distance: 30–40 cm between plants

Hardiness: very resistant to cold (up to –25°C) – ideal for Moldova/Romania

🧹 Care

Remove old leaves in spring

Divide the bushes every 4–5 years if they become too dense

Light mulching to retain moisture

🌸 Uses in the garden

curbs and driveways

ground cover in shaded areas

under trees/shrubs

natural gardens or shaded rock garden