Purple saxifrage
saxifraga oppositifolia
Also known as: ["Arctic saxifrage","rock saxifrage"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial herb native to cold regions, characterized by its small, fleshy leaves and bright purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Saxifraga |
| Botanical Name: | Saxifraga oppositifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in cold climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–15°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"1–5"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil; mix of peat, sand, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from intense midday sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak summer heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; prioritize drainage over frequency.
Soil
well-draining, gritty, acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7.0)
pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Cool to cold temperatures; ideal range 5–15°C (41–59°F); tolerates frost but prefers protection from extreme cold.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from sudden drops; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 10–15°C (50–59°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip with clean shears; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead growth; avoid over-pruning; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure it’s not too large to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in a pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the container or every 2–3 years; avoid frequent repotting as it prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim any circling roots; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring even moisture without saturating; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or bud drop; signs of stress from heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; can cause root damage if temperatures drop below -15°C (5°F); may lead to dieback.
Solution: Provide frost protection; use mulch to insulate roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; excessive heat can stress the plant even in full sun.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize sparingly in spring and early summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSaxifraga oppositifolia is not considered toxic to cats. No documented evidence suggests that this plant poses a risk to feline health upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSaxifraga oppositifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSaxifraga oppositifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties in humans. It has not been documented to cause adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Saxifraga oppositifolia suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils and is an excellent choice for rock gardens.
Q: Does Saxifraga oppositifolia require full sun?
A: Yes, it prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering.
Q: Can Saxifraga oppositifolia survive in cold climates?
A: Yes, it is highly cold-hardy and can withstand freezing temperatures.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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