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Description
Saxifraga Squarrosa, commonly known as the stonecrop or saxifrage, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to the Himalayas and grows in alpine regions at an altitude of 3,000 to 5,000 meters. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves and produces a stem that grows up to 30 centimeters in height. Saxifraga Squarrosa blooms during the summer months, producing small white or pink flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus | Saxifraga |
Appearance
Saxifraga Squarrosa has a rosette of basal leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape, measuring up to 10 centimeters in length. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The stem of the plant grows up to 30 centimeters in height and produces small white or pink flowers, measuring up to 2 centimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
Saxifraga Squarrosa requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun and requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilization should be done during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifraga Squarrosa is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant. Regular inspection and treatment using an insecticidal soap can help control infestations.
Habitat
Saxifraga Squarrosa is native to the Himalayas and grows in alpine regions at an altitude of 3,000 to 5,000 meters. The plant prefers rocky and gravelly soil and can be found growing on cliffs and slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Saxifraga Squarrosa a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, the plant is well-suited for rock gardens and can be used as a groundcover.
Q: Can Saxifraga Squarrosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should Saxifraga Squarrosa be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Saxifraga Squarrosa tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Related Plants
- Saxifraga stolonifera
- Saxifraga x arendsii
- Saxifraga umbrosa
- Saxifraga oppositifolia
References
- “Saxifraga Squarrosa” Missouri Botanical Garden. missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfindersearch.aspx?taxonid=281733&isprofile=0&
- “Saxifraga Squarrosa” Royal Horticultural Society. rhs.org.uk/plants/details%3Fplantid%3D1747
- “Saxifraga Squarrosa” Gardening Know How. gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/saxifrage/growing-saxifraga-plant.htm
