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Description
Saxifraga Fragilis, commonly known as brittle saxifrage, is a small perennial herb belonging to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in mountainous regions, rocky slopes, and crevices. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves and produces a flowering stem up to 10 cm tall. The stem bears small white or pink flowers that bloom from April to June. The plant is known for its delicate appearance and fragile stems, hence the name brittle saxifrage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Saxifraga |
Appearance
The leaves of Saxifraga Fragilis are basal, forming a rosette that can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The leaves are spatulate or oblong in shape, with a toothed margin and a light green color. The stem of the plant is thin, fragile, and up to 10 cm tall. The stem bears small white or pink flowers that have five petals and bloom from April to June. The plant is typically small and delicate, with a fragile appearance that makes it a popular choice for rock gardens and alpine plantings.
Care Guide
Water: Saxifraga Fragilis prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in spring if desired.
Soil: Saxifraga Fragilis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Saxifraga Fragilis is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifraga Fragilis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Saxifraga Fragilis is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in mountainous regions, rocky slopes, and crevices. The plant prefers well-drained soil and cool temperatures, making it well-suited for alpine environments. It can also be found in rock gardens and other well-draining soil environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Saxifraga Fragilis a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Saxifraga Fragilis is an excellent choice for rock gardens and alpine plantings because of its small size and delicate appearance.
Q: Does Saxifraga Fragilis require a lot of water?
A: No, Saxifraga Fragilis prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Q: What is the blooming season of Saxifraga Fragilis?
A: Saxifraga Fragilis blooms from April to June.
Q: How big can Saxifraga Fragilis grow?
A: Saxifraga Fragilis typically grows up to 10 cm tall.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga oppositifolia
- Saxifraga paniculata
- Saxifraga umbrosa
- Saxifraga stolonifera
References
- “Saxifraga Fragilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l980.
- “Saxifraga Fragilis (Brittle Saxifrage).” Plant Lust, plantlust.com/plants/10021/saxifraga-fragilis.
- “Saxifraga Fragilis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/32487/Saxifraga-fragilis/Details.
