Saxifragales
Contents
Description
Saxifragales is an order of flowering plants that includes over 3000 species in 15 families. These plants are found in various habitats around the world, from the Arctic to the tropics. The name Saxifragales comes from the Latin words “saxum” meaning rock and “frangere” meaning to break, referring to the ability of some species to grow in rocky crevices.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | 15 families including Saxifragaceae, Grossulariaceae, and Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Over 3000 species including Saxifraga, Ribes, and Sedum |
Appearance
Saxifragales plants come in many shapes and sizes, from tiny rosettes to large shrubs. They can be evergreen or deciduous and have various leaf shapes and textures. The flowers are typically small and have five petals, often arranged in clusters. The colors of the flowers range from white to pink, yellow, and red.
Some notable examples of Saxifragales plants include:
- Saxifraga stolonifera – a low-growing perennial with heart-shaped leaves and pink flowers
- Ribes nigrum – a deciduous shrub with edible black berries
- Sedum spectabile – a succulent with pink flowers that attracts butterflies
Care Guide
Here are some tips for caring for Saxifragales plants:
- Water: These plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Saxifragales plants do not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring.
- Soil: These plants prefer soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0 and good drainage.
- Sunlight: Most Saxifragales plants prefer partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The hardiness zones for these plants vary depending on the species.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saxifragales plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by some common issues:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers of Saxifragales plants.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of some Saxifragales plants.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot in these plants.
Habitat
Saxifragales plants are found in many different habitats, including:
- Rocky outcroppings
- Alpine meadows
- Wetlands
- Forests
Some species of Saxifragales are adapted to extreme conditions, such as cold temperatures and low light levels, while others thrive in warm, sunny environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Are all Saxifragales plants native to the same part of the world?
A: No, Saxifragales plants are found in many different parts of the world, from the Arctic to the tropics.
Q: Can Saxifragales plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, some species of Saxifragales can be grown indoors as houseplants.
Q: Do Saxifragales plants require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, Saxifragales plants are generally low-maintenance and do not require frequent watering or fertilization.
Q: Can Saxifragales plants be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, many species of Saxifragales can be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings.
Related Plants
Other plants in the order Saxifragales include:
- Astilbe
- Bergenia
- Heuchera
- Tiarella
References
- “Saxifragales.” Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/plant/Saxifragales.
- “Saxifragales.” The Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/pdfs/plant-groups/Saxifragales.pdf.
- “Saxifragales Plant Order.” ThoughtCo, https://www.thoughtco.com/saxifragales-plant-order-373302.
