Starry Saxifrage
micranthes stellaris
Also known as: ["Alpine Saxifrage","Star Saxifrage"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial plant native to alpine and subalpine regions, characterized by its star-shaped flowers and rosette of basal leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Micranthes |
| Botanical Name: | Micranthes stellaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded rock garden or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil with organic matter such as peat moss or leaf litter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours per day. Tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with dappled sunlight or filtered light, especially outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-draining, acidic to neutral peat-based mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic soil; avoid heavy clay mixes.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid prolonged exposure below 40°F (4°C).
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting or divide the rhizome.
- Prepare the medium.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant and maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 60–70°F (15–21°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; trim back any overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Micranthes stellaris prefers slightly crowded roots, so avoid frequent repotting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not saturated. Ensure excess water drains away completely. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss or compost for organic matter.
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 and cause root damage if the plant is not acclimated or protected.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good soil drainage to prevent cold waterlogging; move indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMicranthes stellaris is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMicranthes stellaris is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMicranthes stellaris is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Micranthes stellaris suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in alpine or subalpine conditions.
Q: Does Micranthes stellaris require special soil conditions?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky, or gravelly soils typical of alpine environments.
Q: Does Micranthes stellaris have any medicinal uses?
A: There is limited documented evidence of medicinal use, though it is primarily valued for its ornamental and ecological significance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
