About

Saxifraga cuneifolia, the shield-leaved saxifrage, is a mat-forming evergreen perennial forming rosettes of wedge-shaped to rounded, leathery, green leaves with purple undersides. Slender, reddish stems to 20 cm bear loose clusters of small, white flowers spotted yellow or reddish-purple in late spring and early summer. A charming and rewarding saxifrage for a shaded, moist rock garden or woodland border.

About the genus

Saxifraga, the saxifrages, are a diverse genus of annuals, biennials and mostly evergreen or herbaceous perennials, mostly mat-forming in habit, with simple or lobed leaves and starry or rounded flowers that may be solitary or in panicles or cymes in spring and summer. Excellent plants for rock gardens, walls and alpine houses.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Alpine Rockery
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden

Care notes

CultivationEasy to grow in most soils, thrives in a shady position
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring or detach rosettes and root in late spring to early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs, vine weevil, and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free
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