Bergenias are a much under rated plant they are no trouble and very nearly pest free. They are a genus of evergreen perennials with thick, usually large rounded to oval even spoon shaped leathery leaves with indented veins that make ideal ground cover. Most varieties a hardy but there are a few that are tender, they will tolerate sun or shade and any well-drained soil. On poor soil especially they can go a rich red colour in the winter and are quite startling. I like to use them for a bit of solidity in my borders because if not careful they can get a little airy. Unfortunately many people use them in very difficult areas and so they never look their best.
