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Key characteristics

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

Groundcovers

Bergenia ciliata 'Dumbo'

Dumbo Bergenia

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.

Light

Partial shade to full shade

Water

Moderate moisture

Bloom time

Early to mid spring

Find this plant

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.