About

Bergenia cordifolia 'Jelle' is a robust evergreen perennial that maintains a compact form while demonstrating vigorous growth. It features clusters of flowers that range from white to pink, rising on stems that display a mix of red and green hues. The plant boasts oval, glossy leaves that are dark green, acquiring a reddish-bronze tint in the fall. This variety is an excellent choice for ground cover and adds visual interest during winter months. It also adapts well to container cultivation.

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

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand, Clay
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained, Poorly-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

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, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

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 and leaves to keep plants tidy
Propagation
Propagate by division or by rhizome section cuttings in Spring or Autumn
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to vine weevil and slugs and snails
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to a leaf spot