Bergenia ciliata

Bergenia ciliata care guide

Bergenia ciliata, commonly known as fringed or hairy Bergenia, is a hardy perennial known for its large, rounded, slightly hairy leaves and soft pink to pale lilac flowers that bloom in early spring. It thrives in part shade to full sun, with moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Unlike some other Bergenia species, it prefers cooler, sheltered positions and does best when protected from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Regular watering during dry periods helps maintain lush foliage, though the plant is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy. Bergenia ciliata is ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and as a ground cover, particularly in New Zealand gardens where its bold foliage adds texture and year-round interest.

Bergenia ciliata for sale

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How big do Bergenia ciliata get?

Bergenia ciliata typically grows to about 30–40 cm tall when in flower and can spread up to 50–60 cm wide. The large, rounded leaves form a low, dense clump, while flower stalks may rise slightly above the foliage in early spring. Its spreading habit makes it effective as a ground cover in shaded or semi-shaded garden areas.

What conditions does Bergenia ciliata like?

Bergenia ciliata prefers a position in full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist, well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, as long as drainage is adequate. While it grows best with regular moisture, it is surprisingly drought-tolerant once established. It also tolerates cold, wind, and coastal conditions, making it a reliable choice for many New Zealand gardens. It benefits from a sheltered spot where its early spring flowers are protected from harsh frosts, though the plant itself is hardy. It also appreciates light shade in hotter areas, where too much direct sun can scorch the foliage. The plant performs well in borders, under trees, or as ground cover and adds year-round interest with its evergreen leaves, which often take on a bronze or reddish hue in winter.

What is Bergenia ciliata used for in medicine?

Bergenia ciliata has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine, particularly in India and parts of Asia, for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and astringent properties. The rhizomes and leaves are commonly employed to treat kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and respiratory ailments such as coughs and bronchitis. The plant contains compounds like bergenin and arbutin, which are believed to help dissolve kidney stones, reduce inflammation, and combat bacterial infections. In some practices, the crushed rhizome is also applied externally to heal wounds and skin infections. While widely used in traditional remedies, clinical evidence is limited, so its use should be approached with caution and ideally under professional guidance.

What are the characteristics of Bergenia ciliata?

Bergenia ciliata is a perennial plant known for its distinctive large, leathery, and hairy (ciliate) leaves, which can grow up to 30 cm across. The leaf margins are fringed with fine hairs, giving the plant its species name "ciliata." It forms a low-growing, clump-forming habit and is evergreen in mild climates. In early spring, it produces clusters of pale pink to light purple flowers on short, sturdy stems that rise slightly above the foliage. The leaves often develop red or bronze tints in cooler weather, adding seasonal interest. Bergenia ciliata thrives in part shade to full sun, prefers moist, well-drained soils, and is tolerant of a range of growing conditions, making it suitable for woodland gardens, shady borders, and ground cover.