Heart-leaf Bergenia

Handsome, extremely tough, and very low-maintenance, Bergenia cordifolia is a vigorous, evergreen perennial with a bushy, clump-forming, weed-suppressing habit. The thick, rounded heart-shaped, slightly wavy leaves are puckered, and mid- to deep green, flushing purple in winter. In February, March and into April, clusters of deep rose-pink to magenta flowers rise on red stems; this is an unusual colour at this time of year, but looks lovely with snowdrops, pulmonarias and the blossom of daphnes and viburnums. The heart-leaf bergenia tolerates poor soils, and even gravel, but dislikes hot, dry conditions – which are a far cry from its native Siberia.