Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’: A Beautiful Rhizomatous Perennial
Background: Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’ also known as Bergenia ‘Evening Glow,’ Heart-leaf Bergenia, or Elephant’s Ears ‘Abendglut,’ is a captivating rhizomatous perennial. Belonging to the Saxifragaceae family of plants, Bergenia cordifolia showcases large, leathery leaves that remain evergreen.
In colder climates, the foliage takes on a stunning bronze-red color. The rounded leaves are dark green, providing an attractive backdrop for the plant’s bell-shaped purple-pink flowers, which bloom on bronze-colored stems.
The stems of Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’ reach a height of approximately 2 feet or 60 centimeters. Due to its clump-forming nature and evergreen foliage, this Bergenia variety serves as an excellent ground cover, enhancing the beauty of borders and rock gardens.
Cultivation of Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’:
Sunlight: Grow Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’ in areas with either full sun or partial shade. While it can tolerate partial shade, it thrives best in full sun.
Planting: When planting Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut,’ select a site with well-drained, fertile soil that is moist and rich in humus. Dry soils can impede the plant’s growth. It is recommended to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter during planting. Space the plants about 18-24 inches apart.
Watering: Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’ is drought-tolerant, but it benefits from regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water deeply but infrequently, aiming to wet the entire root system.
Fertilizer: This variety of Bergenia does not require excessive fertilization. Applying a light, balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season is sufficient to support its growth.
Pests and Diseases: Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’ is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. If any of these pests are observed, they can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Deadheading: To prolong the flowering period of Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut,’ it is recommended to deadhead spent blooms. Simply pinch or snip off the faded flowers using your fingers or garden shears.
Winter Care: This Bergenia variety is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. In zones 3-4, where winter cold is more severe, protecting the plant from frost is advisable. You can accomplish this by covering the plant with a burlap sack or other protective material.
Propagation:
Bergenia cordifolia ‘Abendglut’ can be propagated through division or by using seeds. The division is the more common method. To divide the plant, dig it up in either spring or fall. Use a sharp knife or spade to divide it into two or more sections, ensuring that each section possesses at least one healthy root system. Plant the divisions in well-drained soil and water thoroughly.
If propagating from seeds, it is recommended to start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Sow the seeds in a well-drained potting mix and water adequately. Maintain the moisture of the potting mix without causing it to become waterlogged. Germination may take 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them out, leaving 18-24 inches of space between each plant.
Pests and Disease: Watch out for potential issues such as slugs, snails, vine weevils, leaf spots, or brown rot. Frost can also damage the flowers of Bergenia.
