Bergenia 'Bressingham White'

A stellar selection for providing solid year-round structure and clean spring colour, this reliable elephant's ears is widely considered one of the finest white-flowered varieties available.

From late March into May, sturdy, reddish stems rise above the foliage to carry dense clusters of large, bell-shaped flowers that open pristine white, gradually developing a soft, delicate pink flush at the throat as they mature. The blooms are beautifully framed by a handsome mound of massive, leathery, spoon-shaped leaves that remain evergreen through all four seasons.

It forms a dense, weed-suppressing carpet that works perfectly as ground cover at the front of a border, along a path, or underplanting deciduous shrubs. In the depth of winter, the glossy green leaves take on attractive subtle bronze tints, adding valuable interest when the rest of the garden is bare.

Barnsdale tip: While exceptionally tough and tolerant of dry shade, this variety will flower far more profusely in a position that receives reliable morning sun. To keep the mound looking immaculate, simply snip off the faded flower spikes in early summer and remove any old, tatty outer leaves that have been damaged by winter winds.

March-May flowering. Evergreen. Will grow in sun or shade in moist well-drained soil. Height & spread: 36cm x 30cm (14" x 12").