Bergenia Pig Squeak

It so often goes that the most exciting and unique plants get the most exciting and unique names. Bergenia Pig Squeak (Bergenia cordifolia) is no different with its peculiar leaves and delightful fuchsia flower tufts.

Small gardens or landscapes in need of a low growing perennial to place front and center need search no further. This plant grows low to the ground while holding it's own in eye appeal.

The flowers are what you'll notice first. They bloom dark pink florets tucked in fluffy looking blooms on top of strong stems.

They are often sought after by those in the business of making the perfect bouquet because of their gorgeous shade and shapely stems.

Not to be outdone, the leaves of this plant are something to marvel at in and of itself. These heart-shaped dark green leaves unfurrow in the early spring and simply keep on giving from then on.

Although they'll appear glossy, one touch and you're sure to note they actually have a leathery texture. In fact, that's where Pig Speak gets its name. Rubbing two leaves together sounds rather like the noise its animal counterpart makes!

While we're marveling over leaves that are, incredibly, talented at animal impersonations, the pollinators will be fluttering from near and far for a chance at the nectar these flowers produce.

If you live in a warm climate, first of all, we're jealous, but also your Bergenia will act as an evergreen, Don't forget to appreciate it's fascinating leaves for us each winter!

For the rest of us, the leaves of this perennial will turn a lovely purple-bronze in the fall. It adds extra color to the landscape before retiring for the season. Don't worry though, it'll be back and better than ever at the first sign of spring.

Heart-shaped leaves, pretty pink flowers and fall interest all wrapped up in a single plant. What more could you ask for? Order a Bergenia Pig Squeak for your gardening needs today!

How to Use Bergenia Pig Speak in the Landscape

Plant a pop of pink in your garden. You deserve it. Bergenia grows low to the ground and in clumps, so space is one thing you won't have to fret over.

You know that flower bed underneath that gorgeous shade tree in the backyard? It can be a bit of a challenge finding plants that appreciate copious amounts of shade to make that bed shine.

Feel free to use this perennial as an accent there or even a centerpiece! It won't mind a slight lack of sunlight. Problem solved!

Cottage gardens are another place this plant does well. Most cottage gardens have their share of interesting and unique plants and Bergenia, with its peculiar leaves, will fit right in.

In shaded areas, pair it with some Rozanne Geranium to keep the color scheme warm. In places that get some sun, perhaps contrast with a Pocket Full of Gold® Daylily.

This is the perfect plant whether you're dealing with an expansive landscape or an itty bitty backyard garden. Even if you have no garden at all, you can use Pig Squeak in containers as the filler if your spiller-filler-thriller combo.

Bring in a couple of stems each year to add to a bouquet. It's sure to liven up whatever space it calls home!

#ProPlantTIps for Care

Pig Squeak will do well in a wide range of soil types but it loves rich, moist, soil that high in organic matter the most.

When picking a forever home, keep in mind that this perennial appreciates either partial sun or full shade. 4-6 hours of sun is about as much as it'll handle with grace.

As the blooms fade for the year, go ahead and remove the spent flower heads. This will let the plant focus its energy on staying perky and green.

For those in colder zones, wait for early spring and pull off the dried or damaged leaves from the plant. It'll grow back each year good as new.

When planting, you'll want to make sure you water in well. From then on, go ahead and give this perennial medium moisture.

Large spaces, small spaces, and everything in between is Pig Squeak's specialty. It's fancy flowers and quirky leaves will have you falling in love. Order one today from our expert growers at Nature Hills Nursery!