Xela's Garden

Elephant's Ears [S.V.B.]

Planted: ? Vistabile utility border
'09 divisions from V in Shenstone garage border
02.11 divisions from V. in Blossom Cottage back garden

Genus: Bergenia
Species: cordifolia
Skill Level: Beginner
Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade, Shade
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Clay/heavy, Acidic, Chalky/alkaline
Height: 60cm
Spread: 75cm
Time to divide plants: February to March
Flowering period: April to May

Perhaps the most common of all bergenias, but worthy of a place in any garden. Naturally found in Siberia, this tough perennial has broad, leathery leaves which make dense ground cover when established especially if grown in a group. Although green in summer, the rounded foliage often becomes tinted purple in winter. Its nodding rosy flowers in early spring are held on knee-high stems.

Looks good with:
Pulmonaria rubra 'Redstart'
Vinca minor 'Aureovariegata'
[Source: www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/plants/plant_finder/plant_pages/4126.shtml ]

Photos of this plant

Reminders for this plant

Due almost 17 years ago:

Divide old or overly large clumps

Divide clumps February - March

Due over 16 years ago:

Divide

After flowering remove faded flowerheads and apply a slow-release fertiliser around the plant. Lift and divide large clumps in early spring.

Due almost 16 years ago:

Divide

Divide clumps February - March

Due over 15 years ago:

Feed

After flowering remove faded flowerheads and apply a slow-release fertiliser around the plant.

Due almost 15 years ago:

Feed

After flowering remove faded flowerheads and apply a slow-release fertiliser around the plant.

Divide

Lift & divide large clumps in earlys Spring, February - March

Divide

Lift & divide large clumps in earlys Spring, February - March

Due almost 14 years ago:

Divide

Lift & divide large clumps in early Spring, February - March

Due over 13 years ago:

Deadhead & feed

After flowering remove faded flowerheads and apply a slow-release fertiliser around the plant.

Due almost 13 years ago:

Divide

Lift & divide large clumps in early Spring, February - March

Due almost 12 years ago:

Divide

Lift & divide large clumps in early Spring, February - March

Due over 11 years ago:

Dead head & feed

After flowering remove faded flowerheads and apply a slow-release fertiliser around plants.