Contents
Description
Saxifraga Aspera, commonly known as Rough Saxifrage or Alpine Meadow Saxifrage, is a stunning alpine plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. This perennial plant is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia and is popular among gardeners for its unique appearance and hardiness. It can grow up to 6 inches tall and spread up to 12 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Saxifraga |
Appearance
The leaves of Saxifraga Aspera are thick and leathery, with a dark green color that sometimes has a reddish tint. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in early summer. The flower stems can grow up to 6 inches tall and the flowers themselves are about 1/3 inch wide. The plant’s unique appearance is due to the tiny hair-like structures that cover its leaves and stems, which give it a rough texture.
Care Guide
Water: Saxifraga Aspera prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, but do not let it sit in waterlogged soil.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight: Saxifraga Aspera prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it may need protection from the afternoon sun.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifraga Aspera is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Habitat
Saxifraga Aspera is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows at high altitudes. It prefers rocky or gravelly soil and can be found growing in meadows, on steep slopes, and in crevices in rocks. It is well adapted to cold and windy conditions and is able to withstand harsh alpine environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Saxifraga Aspera be grown indoors?
A: While Saxifraga Aspera can be grown indoors, it prefers cooler temperatures and may not do well in a warm indoor environment.
Q: How often should I water Saxifraga Aspera?
A: Water the plant regularly, but do not let it sit in waterlogged soil. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Q: Can Saxifraga Aspera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Saxifraga Aspera can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Saxifraga Aspera attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Saxifraga Aspera is known to attract bees and butterflies with its small, fragrant flowers.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga cernua
- Saxifraga oppositifolia
- Saxifraga paniculata
- Saxifraga stellaris
References
- “Saxifraga Aspera.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281361.
- “Saxifraga Aspera.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19780/Saxifraga-aspera/Details.
- “Saxifraga Aspera.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/90080/.
