Bergenia cordifolia

Bergenia cordifolia: The Evergreen Heart of the Shade

Tough, timeless, and full of texture, Bergenia cordifolia is a classic perennial known for its glossy, heart-shaped leaves and vibrant early spring blooms. Bright pink flowers emerge in clusters on thick, upright stems just as winter loosens its grip, while the leathery foliage forms a tidy, evergreen clump that takes on rich bronze and burgundy tones in cold weather. Long-lived and incredibly low-maintenance, this plant adds bold form and four-season interest to shaded and partly sunny spaces.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 30–40 cm (with flowers)
• Spread: 45–60 cm, forming a low, wide clump
• Flower Colour: Bright rose-pink
• Flowering Period: Early to mid-spring
• Foliage: Thick, heart-shaped, glossy green leaves that turn reddish-bronze in fall and winter
• Sunlight Requirements: Part shade to full shade; tolerant of sun with moisture
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerant of clay, dry shade, and urban conditions

Uses and Benefits: Bergenia cordifolia excels as a structural groundcover in shady borders, woodland gardens, or along north-facing foundations. Its bold foliage contrasts beautifully with ferns and finer-leaved perennials, while its early bloom offers a much-needed pop of colour and an early nectar source for pollinators. Deer-resistant, drought-tolerant, and practically indestructible once established, it's a foundation plant with enduring appeal.

Companion Plants: Pair with the upright, lacy fronds of Dryopteris filix-mas, the warm-toned foliage of Heuchera 'Cherry Cola', and the soft, variegated texture of Carex 'Ice Dance' for a dynamic, shade-tolerant combination that looks good year-round and offers subtle seasonal shifts.

Care Instructions: Plant in part to full shade with moist, well-drained soil. It tolerates dry shade once established and adapts well to a range of soil types. Trim back spent flowers after blooming, and remove damaged foliage in early spring to make way for fresh growth. Divide every few years in spring to maintain density and vigour.

History: Native to Siberia and Central Asia, Bergenia cordifolia has been a mainstay of temperate gardens for over a century. Valued for its evergreen habit, early bloom, and incredible durability, it’s often referred to as “pig squeak” for the sound its leaves make when rubbed together—a charming detail in an already dependable plant.

Final Thoughts: Bold, resilient, and quietly beautiful, Bergenia cordifolia is a four-season workhorse for shade gardens—offering structure in winter, colour in spring, and ease all year long.