OTHERWISE known as elephant’s ears because of the shape of their leathery leaves, these cabbage- shaped low-growing perennials produce pink, mauve, white or red flowers, but their leaves can also change colour depending on the variety you choose.

Late winter interest can be created with B. `Sunningdale’ whose leaves have red, purple or bronze hues in the cold months. If you want a compact type, go for B.’Perfect’, or for good contrast in a shady spot, go for B.’Bressingham White’, which produces produces funnel-shaped, pure white flowers in mid to late spring that contrast with the leaves.

The flowers will brighten shady areas of the garden, especially when planted at a border’s edge.

Bergenias should be grown in good-sized groups.