The name of this plant means 'Winter Glow' in German because the plant retains its reddish leaves throughout the winter. Another part of its name (cordifolia) describes the heart-shaped leaves in Latin. It is commonly known as 'pig squeak' because of the sound it makes when the leaves are rubbed together.

Winter Glut bergenia is a hardy flowering groundcover with fleshy leaves that grows to about 12- 18 inches tall and wide. It has dark pink flowers in early spring. Although very hardy, this bergenia will suffer winter damage and all damaged foliage should be cut back in early spring. This plant makes an excellent groundcover for shady areas and can withstand periods of drought, although it prefers consistent soil moisture.