Burnet Saxifrage
pimpinella saxifraga
Also known as: ["Burnet","White Pimpernel","Rock Parsley"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with delicate, feathery foliage and small white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Pimpinella |
| Botanical Name: | Pimpinella saxifraga |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, herb gardens, or containers in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season. Major pruning is best done in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on the plant's condition and desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks. New growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching. Cut back leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or a knife.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any dead roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting more frequently.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold. Bud drop or leaf drop in sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death if below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors in cold climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently if soil dries out quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPimpinella saxifraga is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPimpinella saxifraga is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPimpinella saxifraga, commonly known as rock parsley, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used historically in culinary and medicinal applications.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Burnet Saxifrage edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and roots are edible and have been used in traditional cooking and medicine.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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