perennial · design plant record

Bergenia crassifolia

Bergenia / pigsqueak

Broad leaves create a strong low contrast with fine grasses or fern fronds. Evergreen performance depends on climate.

Height at maturity
0.3–0.46 m (1–1.5 ft)
Spread at maturity
0.23–0.91 m (0.8–3 ft)
Light
Sun / Part shade / Shade
Moisture
Drier soil after establishment / Moist, draining soil
Source-reported USDA zones
3–8 · verify subzone and cultivar
Principal seasonal role
Spring, Winter

Fit it to the site

Prefers moist organic soil but tolerates several draining soil textures.

The source’s description gives clumps up to 0.91 m wide while its structured field gives up to 0.61 m. Allow the larger envelope unless a named cultivar is verified.

Keep the care in the decision

Remove damaged leaves and spent flower stems as needed. Protect from drying winter exposure. Extended drought can damage foliage despite drought tolerance.

Origin & safety checks

China and Siberia. Check local suitability and restrictions.

Toxicity not assessed. Historical uses listed by a source are not instructions to consume it.

Check current invasive restrictions with your local plant-health or extension authority. For pets, use the exact botanical name in a veterinary toxicity reference; for potential ingestion or exposure, get appropriate professional advice rather than relying on a design guide.

Factual source · checked 3 October 2026

NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox: Bergenia crassifolia

Ranges are rounded metric conversions of the source's dimensions. Growth varies with cultivar and conditions. Linked source photographs can help verify identity; our concept garden images cannot.