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Description
Saxifraga Mutata, commonly known as the Alpine Saxifrage, is a small, herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is a native of the high-altitude regions of Central Asia and Europe, where it grows in rocky crevices and meadows. The plant is known for its beautiful, star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Saxifraga |
Appearance
Saxifraga Mutata is a small, clump-forming perennial that grows up to 10 cm tall and 20 cm wide. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves that are dark green and glossy. The leaves are toothed and have a rounded shape. The flowers are star-shaped and grow in clusters on long stalks. They come in shades of white, pink, or purple and have yellow centers. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer and produces seeds in late summer or early fall.
Care Guide
Saxifraga Mutata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. Water it regularly, but do not over-water.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to light shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifraga Mutata is a relatively pest-free plant, but it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid over-watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If necessary, treat the plant with a fungicide. The plant may also be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled by handpicking or using a slug bait.
Habitat
Saxifraga Mutata is a native of the high-altitude regions of Central Asia and Europe, where it grows in rocky crevices and meadows. The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil and full sun to light shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Saxifraga Mutata a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Saxifraga Mutata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Q: How often should I water my Saxifraga Mutata?
A: Water the plant regularly, but do not over-water. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist.
Q: What is the best soil type for Saxifraga Mutata?
A: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
Q: What is the blooming season for Saxifraga Mutata?
A: The plant blooms in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga Arendsii
- Saxifraga Oppositifolia
- Saxifraga Paniculata
- Saxifraga Stolonifera
References
- Flora of China. (2018). Saxifraga mutata. Flora of China. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200010473
- RHS. (n.d.). Saxifraga mutata. Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/48207/Saxifraga-mutata/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Saxifraga mutata. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288796
