Bergenia thrives in almost any amount of sunlight, but partial shade is ideal. Plants will always perform the best in rich, moisture retentive soil. The shiny, evergreen, leaves have a unique leathery appearance that is really eye catching. From early to late spring, masses of pink flowers appear in clusters on thick stems just above the foliage. These flowers and the leaves are both long lasting when cut for bouquets. During the autumn and winter months, the leaves take on remarkable reddish bronze hues which remain until spring when they turn back to green. Any tattered leaves can be removed at that time.