Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Bergenia ciliata 'Dumbo'
Dumbo Bergenia
- Family
- Saxifragaceae
- Height
- 8 to 14 in
- Width
- 12 to 18 in
- Flower color
- Soft pink flowers borne on strong upright stems above the foliage
- Foliage color
- Rounded, medium-green leaves with a softly fuzzy or felted surface
- Bloom time
- Early to mid spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate moisture
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flower stalks, tidy damaged foliage in early spring, divide clumps every few years if overcrowded
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees and other early-season pollinators
About this plant
Bergenia ciliata 'Dumbo' is a bold-leaved perennial known for its oversized, softly textured foliage. The rounded leaves emerge fresh green with noticeable ciliation along the margins, creating a velvety appearance that remains attractive through the growing season. In early to mid spring, upright stems carry clusters of pale pink to blush flowers that hover just above the foliage.
Native to the Himalayan region, this selection adapts well to woodland-style plantings and shaded borders. Its broad leaves create a strong ground-level presence, offering contrast beside fine-textured perennials and spring bulbs while maintaining interest well beyond the flowering period.
Works well in
Pollinator Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Borders · Deer-Prone Areas
Companion plants
Hellebores · Japanese forest grass · Brunneras · Hostas · Ferns · Pulmonarias
Design tip
Feature this bergenia where its oversized leaves can provide a bold contrast to finely divided foliage nearby. The difference in leaf size and texture creates depth, making shaded plantings feel richer, more layered, and visually engaging throughout the season.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
