Contents
Description
Micranthes Bryophora, also known as the mossy saxifrage, is a perennial plant native to the alpine regions of North America. It belongs to the Saxifragaceae family and is a small, low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 2-4 inches. It produces small white flowers in the spring and summer months, which are a favorite of pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Micranthes |
Appearance
The mossy saxifrage has small, round leaves that are a bright green color. The leaves grow in a basal rosette, and are covered in tiny hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. The plant produces short stems that carry clusters of small, white flowers. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in a cyme. The plant typically blooms from May to August.
Care Guide
Micranthes Bryophora is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The mossy saxifrage prefers moist soil, but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: This plant doesn’t require much fertilization. You can add a general-purpose fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: The mossy saxifrage prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in rocky or sandy soil.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun. In hotter climates, it may benefit from afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Micranthes Bryophora is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The mossy saxifrage is generally a healthy plant that isn’t prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot in this plant.
- Spider mites: These pests can be a problem in hot, dry conditions. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Micranthes Bryophora is native to alpine regions of North America, including the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada range. It grows in rocky, high-elevation areas, often in areas with moss or lichens. It can also be found in subalpine meadows and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Micranthes Bryophora a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, the mossy saxifrage is a great plant for rock gardens. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in rocky areas.
Q: How often should I fertilize Micranthes Bryophora?
A: This plant doesn’t require much fertilization. You can add a general-purpose fertilizer in the spring if desired.
Q: Can Micranthes Bryophora tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate full sun. However, in hotter climates it may benefit from afternoon shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Micranthes Bryophora?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Related Plants
- Micranthes aprica
- Micranthes bryophila
- Micranthes californica
- Micranthes ferruginea
References
- “Micranthes Bryophora (Mossy Saxifrage).” PlantFiles. Dave’s Garden, n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Micranthes Bryophora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2021.
- “Mossy Saxifrage (Micranthes Bryophora).” Wildflower Search. Wildflower Search, n.d. Web. 20 Oct. 2021.
