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Description
Saxifraga Serpyllifolia, commonly known as Thyme-leaved saxifrage, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Saxifraga genus. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and can grow up to 15 cm in height. Saxifraga Serpyllifolia is an excellent addition to rock gardens, alpine beds, and borders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Saxifraga |
Appearance
Saxifraga Serpyllifolia has a rosette of small, dark green, oval-shaped leaves that are approximately 1 cm long. The leaves are slightly hairy and have a thyme-like fragrance. The plant produces tall stems that support clusters of small, star-shaped, white or pink flowers with yellow centers. The flowers bloom from May to July and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water: Saxifraga Serpyllifolia prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year is sufficient.
Soil: Saxifraga Serpyllifolia grows best in well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.0.
Sunlight: The plant requires full to partial sunlight, preferably in a location that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Saxifraga Serpyllifolia is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifraga Serpyllifolia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may suffer from fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot if overwatered. The plant may also attract slugs and snails.
Habitat
Saxifraga Serpyllifolia is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and can be found in rocky habitats, meadows, and forests. The plant prefers well-drained soil and thrives in high-altitude regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Saxifraga Serpyllifolia invasive?
A: No, Saxifraga Serpyllifolia is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Saxifraga Serpyllifolia tolerate drought?
A: No, Saxifraga Serpyllifolia requires moderate watering and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How often should I fertilize Saxifraga Serpyllifolia?
A: A light application of a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year is sufficient.
Q: Can Saxifraga Serpyllifolia grow in containers?
A: Yes, Saxifraga Serpyllifolia can grow in containers, provided the soil is well-drained and the container has drainage holes.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga Arendsii
- Saxifraga X urbium
- Saxifraga X arendsii
- Saxifraga X geum
References
- “Saxifraga serpyllifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c785.
- “Saxifraga serpyllifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/90514/Saxifraga-serpyllifolia/Details.
- “Saxifraga serpyllifolia.” Plants for a Future. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Saxifraga+serpyllifolia.
