Leather Bergenia Bergenia crassifolia

Bergenia is a large, glossy evergreen, hebacious perennial native to shady north-facing rocks, stony slopes, and rock streams in the forest and alpine zones of China and Siberia. It is a low-growing plant to a foot high with leaves produced in spreading clumps of 2 to 3 feet and makes a lovely ground cover in shady areas.  However, it can be slow to spread. Although it is considered drought-tolerant, the leaves will dry out if the soil is allowed to remain dry for an extended period.  Considered to be evergreen in more temperate areas of the country, it will sustain winter damage in northern areas. The common name pigsqueek comes into play when rubbing a leaf between your fingers and producing a sound much like the animals' squeal. The genus name honors Karl August von Bergen (1704-1759), a German physician and botanist and the specific epithet comes from the Latin words crassus meaning thick and folia meaning leaf in reference to the leathery leaves.

Bergenia grows best in moist organic soil, but tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It can grow in full shade or full sun and can tolerate drought. It will do best sited in a position sheltered from cold drying winds and from the early morning sun. The leaf colour is best when plants are grown in a poor soil in a sunny position. The plant typically blooms from March to May; however, when grown in the southernmost areas, it can bloom as early as December. 

The roots, leaves, and stems contain tannin in different percentages. Tannin is used in the production of leather and ink and is also an ingredient of tea. The leaves of this plant are used as a tea substitute and give it the common name, Siberian Tea.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:   

No known diseases or plant problems. Remove all damaged foliage in late winter to early spring. Promptly remove spent flowering stems.