Overview
Saxifraga pennsylvanica is a perennial in the genus Saxifraga, part of the Saxifragaceae family. Saxifraga pennsylvanica grows best in partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soil soils and acidic to neutral pH. Suggested uses include rock gardens, woodland gardens and groundcover. It is native to eastern United States.
About
Saxifraga pennsylvanica is a perennial saxifrage native to the eastern United States that performs as a low-growing ground cover in sheltered, shaded sites. It favours consistently moist, well-drained soils that range from acidic to neutral. Plant it in partial shade where it can establish among rocks or beneath trees. It flowers from April to July.
About the genus
Saxifraga is the largest genus in the family Saxifragaceae, containing about 473 species of holarctic perennial plants, known as saxifrages or rockfoils. The Latin word saxifraga means literally "stone-breaker", from Latin saxum + frangere. It is usually thought to indicate a medicinal use for treatment of urinary calculi, rather than breaking rocks apart.
Wikipedia contributors, "Saxifraga", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Saxifraga
In the garden
Saxifraga pennsylvanica originates from the eastern United States and is a small, perennial member of the Saxifragaceae suited to cool, sheltered corners. In cultivation it occupies a low layer in rock gardens, woodland borders and as a ground cover where light levels are reduced. Position in partial shade and avoid exposed, drying sites; the species needs a sheltered aspect. Give it a moist but well-drained medium and aim for an acidic to neutral soil reaction. Incorporating leaf mould or other humus at planting helps retain moisture without waterlogging, and a mulch of fine organic material maintains even moisture through spring and summer. Plant individual specimens into crevices or group them along shaded paths and the front of borders to form a neat, low mat. Keep soils reliably moist rather than letting the surface dry out, and situate it where drying winds are checked by walls or larger planting. Expect flowering from April to July, when it adds seasonal floral interest to shaded rockeries and woodland edges.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Saxifraga
- Sunlight
- partial shade
- Soil type
- moist, well-drained soil
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
Plant details
Saxifraga pennsylvanica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, woodland gardens, groundcover
- Native to
- eastern United States
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Saxifraga pennsylvanica
- Cultivation
- Prefers cool, shaded environments with consistent moisture; avoid dry or overly sunny locations.
- Pruning
- Remove dead or damaged foliage after flowering to maintain appearance.
- Propagation
- division, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Saxifraga pennsylvanica?
Prefers cool, shaded environments with consistent moisture; avoid dry or overly sunny locations.
Where is the best place to plant Saxifraga pennsylvanica?
Saxifraga pennsylvanica prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Saxifraga pennsylvanica need?
Saxifraga pennsylvanica grows best in moist and well-drained soil soil. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Saxifraga pennsylvanica?
Remove dead or damaged foliage after flowering to maintain appearance.
How do I propagate Saxifraga pennsylvanica?
Division, seed.
More in the Saxifraga genus
- Saxifraga × umbrosa of gardenstrue London pride
- Saxifraga 'Allendale Divine' (7)
- Saxifraga 'Portae' (x _fritschiana_) (8)
- Saxifraga 'Regina' (x _prossenii_) (7)
- Saxifraga geum 'Dentata'Saxifrage