Species saxifrage

saxifrage

Saxifraga crustata

Saxifrage (Saxifraga crustata) is an evergreen plant from the Saxifragaceae family. The plant has a thick, fleshy rootstock with up to 8 rosettes of fleshy, waxy, obovate-shaped leaves. Blooms from May to June are single, star-shaped flowers that vary in color from white to purple. Saxifrage will thrive when planted in moist, but well-draining soil in part shade to full sun conditions. It propagates easily from stem cuttings or dividing the rootstock and is hardy in USDA zones 3-7. An ideal choice for rock gardens and containers, saxifraga is a low care plant that is sure to brighten any corner of your garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow-white Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

bronze,green,red,purple

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

watering

Saxifrage requires weekly or bi-weekly watering, depending on light and temperature conditions. It should be kept evenly moist, but not soggy. During the spring and summer months, when the plant is actively growing, it should be watered more frequently, usually every 7 to 10 days. In the fall and winter months, when the plant isn't growing, it should be watered every 2 to 4 weeks. During periods of extreme heat, extra watering may be needed or a humidity tray may be used to help increase the humidity in the air around the plant. Saxifrage should be watered until the water drains out of the bottom of the pot. It may also be beneficial to feed the plant during the spring and summer months, to help with its growth.

sunlight

Saxifrage requires moderate sunlight to help it thrive. It is best grown in partial sun, ideally receiving morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled sunlight for an adequate amount of daily exposure. For optimal results, the saxifrage should receive 4-5 hours of bright light daily, although it is typically able to survive in more shady areas. To ensure your saxifrage is receiving enough sunlight, make sure the leaves have a light green hue. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, while too little light can cause the plant to become weak and leggy.

pruning

Pruning Saxifrage (Saxifraga crustata) should be done in the spring, just before the growing season starts. Pruning should be done by no more than 1-third of the total growth of the plant, but it is important not to remove too much, as this can stress the plant. Additionally, old and dead stems should be cut away completely in order to allow healthy growth. Pruning Saxifrage can also promote a more bushier, fuller habit, as new, healthy shoots will be encouraged to form in areas where branches have been thinned or cut away.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Saxifraga crustata typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map