The Story
Plant Bio
Bergenia cordifolia is a clump-forming, evergreen perennial known for its large, leathery, heart-shaped leaves. It serves as an excellent groundcover, producing clusters of bell-shaped flowers on stout stalks in spring. The foliage often develops attractive bronze or red tones in cold weather.
The 'Red Beauty' cultivar is noted for its compact habit and deep reddish-pink flowers. Its glossy, dark green leaves turn a striking deep red to purple-bronze in autumn and winter, providing excellent year-round interest.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
15 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Siberia, Mongolia
Toxicity
May cause mild stomach upset if ingested
Bloom period
Early spring – Mid-spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Remove dead foliage in late fall
- Divide every 3–4 years in early spring
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil with partial shade for best color
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Prune dead foliage in late fall
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t disturb roots during flowering
- Prevent soil compaction around plants
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia questions
What zones can Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia grow in?
Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia deer resistant?
Yes — Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia bloom?
Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia need full sun?
Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Bergenia to compare
Pigsqueak
Bergenia crassifolia 'Dragonfly 'Sakura''
Bergenia Peppermint Patty
Bergenia x hybrida 'Peppermint Patty'
Ms. Piggy Bergenia
Bergenia crassifolia 'Miss Piggy'
Spring Fling Bergenia
Bergenia cordifolia 'Spring Fling'
Pig Squeak
Bergenia cordifolia 'Pig Squeak'
Strachey's Bergenia
Bergenia x stracheyi
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Beauty Heartleaf Bergenia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.