Rockfoil
saxifraga intricata
Also known as: ["Alpine Saxifrage"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to alpine regions, characterized by its intricate leaf arrangement and small, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Saxifraga |
| Botanical Name: | Saxifraga intricata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or shaded indoor containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix with peat, sand, and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on shaping and removing spent flowers.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light; protect from intense afternoon sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–70°F (15–21°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) in winter promote dormancy.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temps; adjust care for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for Saxifraga intricata.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is 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, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prevents overcrowding and refreshes soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without saturation; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or root rot in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if soil freezes; reduces nutrient uptake.
Solution: Insulate pots; move to warmer areas; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or flower drop; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSaxifraga intricata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce known compounds harmful to feline physiology.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSaxifraga intricata 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 intricata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Saxifraga intricata be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does Saxifraga intricata require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: Can Saxifraga intricata be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in alpine or rock garden settings, though it may survive indoors with specific conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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