Heartleaf Bergenia (Bergenia cordifolia)

Heartleaf Bergenia

Bergenia cordifolia

Its leathery leaves hold winter’s frost like bronze shields. Evergreen herbaceous perennial.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to full shade; tolerates full sun in cool climates, prefers dappled light in hot summer regions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; avoid prolonged temperatures above 28°C to prevent leaf scorch
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, glossy heart-shaped evergreen leaves; turns bronze-purple in cold winter
  • Flower: Dense clusters of bell-shaped pink, white, or magenta blooms on upright stalks
  • Stem: Fleshy, sturdy flowering stems rise 30–45 cm above foliage clumps
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced organic feed once. Fertilize only in early spring to support bloom production without overfeeding foliage

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per clump to boost soil calcium levels and prevent leaf tip burn
Pruning
  • Trim browned leaf edges in early spring to tidy foliage clumps
  • Deadhead spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to new growth
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; safe for cats with no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover, border plant, cut flower arrangements; winter foliage interest