Golden Saxifrage
chrysosplenium alternifolium
Also known as: ["Mountain Wood Sorrel","Golden Spotted Saxifrage"]
Overview
A low-growing, herbaceous perennial native to damp, shady habitats in temperate regions, characterized by its bright yellow flowers and alternately arranged 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 alternifolium |
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":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with high organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of dappled sunlight or bright indirect light per day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden beds or north-facing indoor locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; monitor for leaf yellowing.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in dry conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Ensure soil stays moist but not waterlogged; enrich with organic matter; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into smaller sections with roots.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Water well.
- Maintain humidity.
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
Moist, well-draining soil mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root development.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, full establishment in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide when the plant is dormant; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth at the base; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead/damaged growth; thin crowded areas; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the foliage. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth, and allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly 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 compost or leaf mold to improve structure and fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf damage, slow growth, or dormancy; frost can be lethal if not protected.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around the base; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant if too hot.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChrysosplenium alternifolium is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicChrysosplenium alternifolium is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicChrysosplenium alternifolium is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Chrysosplenium alternifolium require full sun?
A: No, it thrives in partial to full shade and prefers damp, moist 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 alternifolium?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods, as it prefers damp conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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