About
Saxifraga exarata, the furrowed saxifrage, is a variable, evergreen perennial forming low cushions or mats of rosettes of small, often lobed, sometimes furrowed leaves. Flowering stems to 12 cm bear white, cream, yellow or reddish flowers in late spring and early summer. A rewarding and variable alpine saxifrage for a sunny, very well-drained rock garden.
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
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine 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
CultivationGrow in moist but very well-drained soil, in bright filtered light or with shade from hot afternoon sun. Keep roots moist in summer but protect from excess winter wet. Ideal for a container or alpine house
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, or by division, detaching individual rosettes and rooting as cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, slugs, vine weevil, and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free