Overview
Bergenia ciliata is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Bergenia, part of the Saxifragaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Bergenia ciliata grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is attractive to pollinators and drought resistant. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to W Himalaya.
About
Bergenia ciliata is a perennial that maintains its foliage year-round, forming dense clumps of broad, rounded leaves that are hairy and often take on a reddish hue in the early spring. During this season, it produces red stems topped with white flowers that gradually transition to pink as they mature. Although frost may harm older leaves, new growth emerges in the spring. The plant typically grows to a height of about 30 cm.
About the genus
Bergenia are evergreen perennials that grow from rhizomes, characterized by their thick, rounded leaves. In the spring, they produce upright clusters of bell-shaped flowers, which can be pink or white.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Bergenia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Bergenia ciliata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- W Himalaya
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Bergenia ciliata
- Cultivation
- Grows well in most humus-rich soils but dislikes extremes of heat and drought. Frosts may damage early flowers. See Bergenia cultivation for further advice
- Pruning
- Remove faded flower spikes
- Propagation
- Propagate by division or root rhizomes sections in spring after flowering
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to vine weevil and slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Bergenia ciliata?
Grows well in most humus-rich soils but dislikes extremes of heat and drought. Frosts may damage early flowers. See Bergenia cultivation for further advice.
Where is the best place to plant Bergenia ciliata?
Bergenia ciliata prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Bergenia ciliata need?
Bergenia ciliata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Bergenia ciliata?
Remove faded flower spikes.
How big does Bergenia ciliata grow?
Bergenia ciliata reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Bergenia ciliata hardy in the UK?
Bergenia ciliata has a UK hardiness rating of H4.
How do I propagate Bergenia ciliata?
Propagate by division or root rhizomes sections in spring after flowering.
Is Bergenia ciliata good for pollinators?
Yes — Bergenia ciliata attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.