Granular Saxifrage
saxifraga granulata
Also known as: [" Meadow Saxifrage","Granular Saxifrage"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with rosettes of leaves and delicate white flowers, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Saxifraga |
| Botanical Name: | Saxifraga granulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in dappled light outdoors; shield from intense midday sun indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain compact form.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as needed; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh potting mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot in damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil is not overly wet.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Saxifraga granulata due to the presence of saponins. The toxicity is generally low but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe saponins in Saxifraga granulata can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The effects are typically not life-threatening but may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSaxifraga granulata contains saponins which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to discomfort rather than severe toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Saxifraga granulata be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Saxifraga granulata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: Is Saxifraga granulata suitable for shade?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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