Elephant Ears
bergenia crassifolia
Also known as: ["Siberian Tea","Pigsqueak"]
Overview
A hardy perennial with large, leathery leaves and pink or magenta flowers, native to Siberia and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Bergenia |
| Botanical Name: | Bergenia crassifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, protected from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with plenty of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates full sun in cooler climates with adequate moisture.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; provide dappled light in warmer regions; monitor for leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure good drainage; maintain soil fertility with organic amendments; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 3–8; prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F); tolerates cold but benefits from protection in extreme frost.
Protect from extreme cold; provide shade in hot climates; maintain consistent moisture.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water well after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or early autumn when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Moderate humidity; indirect light; consistent temperatures around 60–70°F.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water for stem cuttings.
Hormone
Not typically necessary for division; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, full establishment in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has roots and foliage.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base; avoid cutting into the rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead foliage; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; division is often done during repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may become discolored or wilt; growth may slow or stop in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Apply a thick layer of mulch for insulation; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stagnate in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBergenia crassifolia is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBergenia crassifolia is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBergenia crassifolia is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bergenia crassifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Bergenia crassifolia require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate full shade.
Q: How do I propagate Bergenia crassifolia?
A: It can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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