In their natural habitat, Bergenias (often called Pigsqueak by us gardeners!) are mountain dwellers, hailing from the high-altitude regions of Central and East Asia. While they all share that rugged mountain spirit, different varieties have their own quirks—some stay evergreen all winter, while others might drop their leaves. But for most of us looking to add some charm to the backyard, the real decision-maker is the flower color.
White and Pink Blooms
If you’ve got a bright, sunny spot, the lighter-colored Bergenias are a fantastic choice. Because their petals are already pale, they won’t fade or look “washed out” even in full sun. Here are a few of my favorite light-colored varieties:
- Bergenia stracheyi ‘Alba’: Classic, crisp white flowers.
- Bergenia ‘Bressingham White’: Starts white but sometimes develops a lovely soft pink tint as it ages.
- Bergenia ‘Silberlicht’ (Silverlight): Pure, bright white blooms.
- Bergenia stracheyi ‘Belvedere’: Very delicate, pale pink flowers.
- Bergenia ‘Baby Doll’: A charming, deeper pink.
- Bergenia ‘Blickfang’: Pretty pink petals with a striking dark “eye” in the center.
- Bergenia ‘Biedermeier’: White flowers with a dainty pink edge.
Red and Purple Varieties
If your garden palette leans more toward bold, moody tones, Bergenia has plenty of rich reds and purples to offer. These really make a statement against their thick green leaves:
- Bergenia ‘Eroica’: Stunning violet-red blooms.
- Bergenia ‘Abendglocken’ (Evening Bells): Deep, moody red flowers.
- Bergenia ‘Abendglut’ (Evening Glow): Rich crimson-red blossoms.
- Bergenia ‘Ballawley’: Vibrant carmine-red flowers paired with extra-large foliage.
- Bergenia ‘Profusion’: A lovely lilac-pink shade.
- Bergenia ‘Purpurkönigin’ (Purple Queen): Bold purple-red flowers.
- Bergenia ‘Rote Schwester’ (Red Sister): Classic, bright red blooms.
Unique and Standout Varieties
Some Bergenias just like to do things a little differently! Take *Bergenia cordifolia*, for example—it features unique salmon-pink flowers and beautiful heart-shaped leaves. It’s a real conversation starter and is super easy to propagate if you want to spread the love around your garden. Here are a few other standouts:
- Bergenia purpurascens: Features red flowers, but the real show is in the fall when the leaves turn a brilliant, fiery red.
- Bergenia ‘Monte Rosa’: Gorgeous bluish-lilac blooms.
- Bergenia ‘Oeschberg’: Classic, cheery pink flowers.
