Bergenia is a genus of about 10 species of flowering plants native to Central Asia. This slow growing plant belongs to the Saxifragaceae family.
Bergenia forms clumps of large leaves and clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers. These plants are great for rock gardens, as well as for borders.
The genus name was given in honor of Karl August von Bergen (1704-1759), a German anatomist and botanist.
Bergenia symbolizes health and renewal.
Bergenia is used in medicine for immune system therapy because of the chemical compound (bergenin and norbergenin) found in leaves and roots that helps regulate immune responses.
The plant is used to treat urinary problems, fevers, colds, coughs, hemorrhoids, diarrhea and to relieve earaches.
