Species strawberry geranium
yellow-green leaves with green-brown stems

strawberry geranium

Saxifraga stolonifera 'Variegata'

Also Known As - mother of thousands
Strawberry geranium (Saxifraga stolonifera 'Variegata') is a low-growing evergreen perennial that grows up to 8 inches in height and 12 inches in width. It produces small pink flowers in late spring and early summer, and from late summer onwards there are bright red or yellow-green variegated leaves that spread out like a fan. The leaves are small and fringed and the stems are covered in soft white hairs. It makes a lovely ground cover and looks great planted in containers or rock gardens. Its care is quite easy, requiring only a little trimming, sunshine and occasional watering.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Filtered shade, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

yellow Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow,cream

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Strawberry geranium prefers moist soil, so it should be watered often, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly, then allow the plant to drain for at least 30 minutes before removing any excess water. Generally, water once every 7-10 days during the growing season and once every 14 days during the winter. Be sure not to overwater as this can cause root rot. If you are unsure of how often to water, stick your finger down to the second knuckle in the soil – if it’s dry, it’s time to water.

sunlight

Strawberry geranium is a low-maintenance, evergreen plant. It prefers indirect sunlight and should not be directly exposed to the sun for more than a few hours a day. It is best to provide bright, indirect light during the morning or afternoon for about 4-5 hours. In the summer months, it is recommended to give the plant a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning and afternoon, but make sure the plant is not exposed to intense, direct sunlight. For best results, provide the plant with partial sunlight in an area that receives light shade or filtered light during hot days.

pruning

Strawberry geraniums should only be pruned in spring, before the start of the growing season. Pruning should be done minimally and selectively to maintain the desired size and shape. Start pruning by removing clusters of old, yellowish leaves. Cut off any leggy parts, but do not cut more than 2-thirds of the way into the main branch. Then cut out any weak, crossing, or damaged branches. For a fuller, bushier look, remove any shoots growing from below the surface of the soil. Prune the shoots as close to the soil as possible so they will not regrow. Pruning should be done lightly and judiciously so as not to damage the plant.

Season

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

Strawberry geranium typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Strawberry geranium typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Saxifraga stolonifera 'Variegata' is typically harvested in the months of June, July, and August.

Hardiness Map