Bergenia crassifolia ‘Winterglut’ (Redleaf Bergenia)

Mature Height: 12-15”

Mature Spread: 12-15”

Hardy To: 8,000’

Water: Medium

Exposure: Adaptable

Flower Color: Pink

Flower Season: Early Spring

Attracts: Butterflies

Resistant To: Deer, Rabbits

Description: The handsome pale purplish-burgundy cabbage-like foliage of the Redleaf Bergenia is an excellent accent for any gar- den. Showy pink blossoms are carried on a leafless stalk, and the foliage color deepens to an incomparable red in fall and remains through the winter. This plant is tolerant of many soil types, but performs best in moisture retentive soils and dislikes heavy soil and standing water. Redleaf Bergenia is sometimes called “Pig Squeak”, because of the sound that the leathery leaves make when rubbed between two fingers. Its flowers and leaves are long lasting when cut for bouquets.

Care: Remove any tattered leaves and spent flower stems promptly as they appear. Divide plants in the spring every 2-3 years or when they open in the center, and be sure to plant them deeply enough to support the large rosettes.

Fun Fact: Since the 18th century, the dense and dramatic Redleaf Bergenia has been used at the base of statues and fountains. Orig- inating in the saturated soils of Siberia, it has a natural tolerance

for wet ground, which may have led to its popular connection with these water features.