Golden Saxifrage
chrysosplenium oppositifolium
Also known as: ["Golden Saxifrage","Opposite-leaved Golden Saxifrage"]
Overview
A low-growing, herbaceous perennial native to damp, shady habitats in Europe and parts of Asia. It is valued for its bright yellow flowers and opposite leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Chrysosplenium |
| Botanical Name: | Chrysosplenium oppositifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or shaded container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch. Place in a sheltered spot outdoors or in a north-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid harsh afternoon light; dappled shade is ideal.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to slightly dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate mild frosts.
Keep in cool, shaded areas; protect from extreme heat; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide the plant.
- Prepare the medium.
- Plant the cutting/division.
- Maintain humidity.
- Monitor for root development.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root initiation.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional time for establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, peat-based mix, perlite.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost or peat moss; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth but are generally tolerated. Prolonged freezing may damage foliage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in severe cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in damp conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChrysosplenium oppositifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicChrysosplenium oppositifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicChrysosplenium oppositifolium is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Chrysosplenium oppositifolium require full sun?
A: No, it thrives in partial to full shade and prefers damp, shaded conditions.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Chrysosplenium oppositifolium?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, as it prefers damp conditions but not waterlogged soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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