4/98-05 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information contact: Christine Kelleher, 800-232-9557, Ext. 512, or Gary Doerr, 916-716-1889

Raised by Alan Bloom for the most colorful leaves he has seen on a Bergenia, 'Bressingham Ruby' provides outstanding ruby-red foliage for late autumn and winter. That is quite a feat since all members of the Bergenia family are known for their handsome foliage.

'Bressingham Ruby' is useful as a weed-smothering groundcover for the front of borders or in rock gardens; also in flower arrangements. Companion plants include Bellflower (Campanula 'Chettle Charm' ), Pinks (Dianthus spp.), Crane's Bill (Geranium 'Ann Folkard', Ballerina, - Laurence Flatman. ), Aster, Speedwell (Veronica spp.) and Garden Sage (Salvia spp.).

Benefits. Outstanding foliage color for late autumn and winter. Bold flower color and form in spring, with a better display of flowers above the foliage than others in the species.

Bloom Season and Habit. Deep rose-pink flowers from mid- to late spring above clumps of broad, oval, leathery leaves. Ruby-red foliage is suffused with green in spring and summer, intensifying in color as weather cools.

Location. Partial shade to full sun. Zones 4 to 8.

Size. Fourteen inches tall by 12 inches wide. Plant three to four plants per square yard.

Culture. Give extra water if hot and dry. Fertilize sparingly. Remove spent flowers. Divide in spring every three to four years.