Rough Saxifrage
saxifraga aspera
Also known as: ["Rough-leaved Saxifrage","Rough Saxifrage"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial with rough, hairy leaves and small white or pink flowers, native to rocky, alpine environments.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Saxifraga |
| Botanical Name: | Saxifraga aspera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with added organic matter; a mix of cactus soil and perlite 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 dividing the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, rocky, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 40°F (4°C).
Keep away from heat vents; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer well to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rosettes; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 65–75°F (18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent potting soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed up rooting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; divide clumps by gently separating rosettes.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged leaves; occasional division to prevent overcrowding.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged leaves; divide if overcrowded; shape as needed
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or develop brown spots; growth may become leggy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
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 active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSaxifraga aspera is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSaxifraga aspera is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSaxifraga aspera is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Saxifraga aspera suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Saxifraga aspera thrives in rocky, alpine environments and is well-suited for rock gardens.
Q: How often should Saxifraga aspera be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Saxifraga aspera attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its small flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
