Quick Guide: spring, hardy, sun/semi-shade, height: 30-45cm/12-18in, width: 60cm/24in

Bergenias are among the elite of evergreen ground cover plants, with large, glossy, handsome leaves and nodding clusters of bellshaped flowers. Both foliage and flowers are prized by flower arrangers, too.

GROWING Almost any situation will do, as long as the soil is reasonably moist and fertile. The best winter leaf colour will be achieved on open sites. Plant in autumn or spring and leave undisturbed until the clump is overcrowded. Pick off damaged leaves and remove flower stems after flowering.

PROPAGATION Lift and divide established plants in the autumn. Select single-rooted portions and replant immediately.

VARIETIES Choose from hybrids such as `Abendglut' (syn. `Evening Glow', above), deep magenta flowers, laves reddish bronze in favourable conditions; `Morgenrot' (syn. Morning Blush'), pink, often flowers twice, in spring and summer.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Leaf spot may discolour the leaves.