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Description
Saxifraga Hypnoides, commonly known as mossy saxifrage, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to the subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. This plant is a popular choice for rock gardens and is often used as a ground cover in landscaping. Saxifraga Hypnoides grows up to 10 cm tall and spreads up to 50 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Saxifraga |
Appearance
Saxifraga Hypnoides has small, bright green leaves that form a rosette at the base of the plant. The leaves are rounded with toothed edges and are covered in fine white hairs. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, and bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant produces multiple flower stalks that rise above the foliage, each with several flowers. After blooming, the plant produces small, brown seed capsules.
Care Guide
Saxifraga Hypnoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your mossy saxifrage healthy:
- Water: Water regularly to keep the soil lightly moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 6.0-6.5).
- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade to full sun, but avoid planting in areas with intense afternoon sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Saxifraga Hypnoides is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifraga Hypnoides is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves of the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent crown rot.
Habitat
Saxifraga Hypnoides is native to subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows in rocky and gravelly areas, including alpine meadows, cliffs, and rock crevices. The plant is adapted to cold temperatures and can withstand freezing temperatures and snow cover.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Saxifraga Hypnoides be grown indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow Saxifraga Hypnoides indoors as it requires cold temperatures and a period of winter dormancy to thrive.
Q: How often should I fertilize my mossy saxifrage?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Saxifraga Hypnoides?
A: Mossy saxifrage can be propagated by division or from seed. Divide the plant in early spring or fall, or sow seeds in the fall.
Q: How long does it take for Saxifraga Hypnoides to bloom?
A: Mossy saxifrage typically blooms in late spring or early summer, around May or June.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga Arendsii
- Saxifraga Cotyledon
- Saxifraga Stolonifera
- Saxifraga Umbrosa
References
- “Saxifraga Hypnoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277878&isprofile=0&.
- “Saxifraga hypnoides.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/33053/.
- “Saxifraga hypnoides.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/22216/Saxifraga-hypnoides/Details.
