Roundleaf Saxifrage
saxifraga rotundifolia
Also known as: ["Roundleaf Saxifrage","Mountain Saxifrage"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to mountainous regions, characterized by its rounded leaves and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Saxifraga |
| Botanical Name: | Saxifraga rotundifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; mix of peat, sand, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, rocky, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain too much water; ensure bottom drainage holes are clear; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for Saxifraga rotundifolia.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; maintain compact shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season 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; benefits from fresh soil and space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
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
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a cool but stable environment.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSaxifraga rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSaxifraga rotundifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSaxifraga rotundifolia is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It has no documented physiological impact when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Saxifraga rotundifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Saxifraga rotundifolia?
A: It thrives in partial shade, well-drained soil, and cooler temperatures, making it suitable for rock gardens or alpine settings.
Q: Does Saxifraga rotundifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies, making it beneficial for pollinator gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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