About
Saxifraga rotundifolia, the round-leaved saxifrage, is a low, spreading evergreen perennial forming rosettes of rounded to kidney-shaped, leathery, green, coarsely toothed leaves. Upright stems to 50 cm bear loose clusters of tiny, white flowers spotted yellow at the base and red in the centre in late spring. A rewarding and ornamental species for a shaded, moist, well-drained rock garden or woodland border.
About the genus
Saxifraga, the saxifrages, are a vast and diverse genus of annuals, biennials and evergreen or herbaceous perennials, mostly mat- or cushion-forming with simple or lobed leaves and starry or rounded flowers in panicles, cymes or solitary. Excellent plants for rock gardens, alpine troughs and shaded walls.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-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
Native toS Europe, SW Asia
Care notes
CultivationEasy to grow in most soils, thrives in light or afternoon shade but will tolerate full sun
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