Bergenia crassifolia var. pacifica
A variety found growing in Far East Russia in the regions of Khabarovsk and Primorye where it grows on the margins of mixed coniferous woodland, in thickets of shrubs, and on stony scree and rocky soil at 500-1800m.
Described by Yeo as having broadly oval or obovate dark green leaves that are nearly as broad as long with a rounded or cuneate base. Pink flushed stems in spring bear clusters of orchid purple flowers. Said to differ from Bergenia crassifolia var. crassifolia in its slightly broader leaves, more intense red petal colour and general vigour.
Not commonly available for sale but excellent specimens can be found growing in botanic gardens, such as RBG Kew, RBGE and CUBG.
Bergenia crassifolia var. pacifica Kew (1996-1511)
A seed collection by Kirkham and Flanagan from the secondary peak of Oblachnaya in the Sikhote-Alin mountain range in Primorye, while on the Sakhalin/Ussuri Expedition in 1996. This specimen grown at Kew has ovate, smooth, deep green leaves with a pink petiole and a blushed red margin. Flowers are yet to be observed.
Not available for sale but can be found growing at Kew.
