Heartleaf bergenia adapts to a wide range of conditions. It grows best in moist, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. In cool regions in moist soil, it can grow in full sun, but the foliage looks best under the filtered light of high trees. In the South, grow heartleaf bergenia in part to full shade. In cold regions with unreliable snow cover, protect plants in winter with a thick layer of straw or salt hay added in late fall.
Heartleaf bergenia is one of the best-kept secrets of shade gardening. Native to regions of central Asia, this hardy plant has thick, shiny leaves that remain green through winter, even in cold northern areas. In spring, nodding clusters of pink, white, or rosy red flowers rise on succulent stalks to peek above the mantle of leaves.
ZONES: 3–9
BLOOM TIME: Spring
LIGHT: Part shade
HEIGHT: 18 inches
INTEREST: Attractive clusters of pink, white, or red flowers above handsome, glossy evergreen foliage
Heartleaf bergenia can be used in the same manner as hosta (pages 178 to 179). Plant as an edging along walkways or to define the front of the perennial border. It makes an excellent ground cover under deciduous trees and is a good accent plant for shady rock or water gardens. Heartleaf bergenia is especially nice in clumps along a woodland trail in the company of primroses and ferns.
