Also known as Saxifrage · 155 saves
Saxifraga
Saxifraga, the genus most gardeners know as saxifrage. We track 9 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 9 most-saved Saxifraga varieties
3 species of Saxifraga
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Saxifraga in Sow
Save the Saxifraga you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Saxifraga
Whats common across all Saxifraga varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 9 most-grown of them.
The Saxifraga year
- Spring CleanupMarch and April89% of varieties
Tidy up dead or damaged foliage before new growth starts.
- PropagateMay–August78% of varieties
Propagate by pinning down runners or dividing clumps.
- FertilizeApril44% of varieties
Apply a light, balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring.
- DivideApril and June44% of varieties
Divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years in spring or fall.
- Check for PestsJune and July33% of varieties
Inspect the dense rosettes for spider mites and mealybugs during warm, dry periods.
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Provide partial shade in hot climates
- Provide partial shade during hot summer days
- Apply fertilizer during the growing season
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not expose to full intense sun in summer
- Avoid heavy clay soils that retain excess moisture
- Avoid waterlogging as it causes root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Saxifraga
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and stippled, yellowing foliage in warm, dry conditions. | Apply targeted miticides or organic insecticidal soaps, and ensure the plant is not subjected to dry, baking heat. |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in leaves | Use organic slug bait or handpick at night |
| Slugs and snails | Irregular holes chewed in the soft, fleshy rosettes. | Clear debris from around the plants and apply organic slug baits or physical barriers. |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and improve air circulation |
| Crown rot | Browning and softening of the central cushion stems, leading to plant collapse. | Improve drainage immediately, remove affected portions, and keep the collar dry. |
Making more Saxifraga
Division
- Dig up mature clumps in early spring or fall
- Separate into smaller sections with roots intact
- Plant divisions at the same depth as original
- Water thoroughly and mulch lightly
- Allow 6 weeks to establish
Cuttings
- Take softwood cuttings in late spring
- Dip in rooting hormone
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil
- Maintain humidity for 6 weeks until roots develop
Saxifraga questions
How many types of Saxifraga are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 9 distinct Saxifraga varieties. The most popular — ranked by 155 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Saxifraga grow in?
Across its varieties, Saxifraga covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Saxifraga bloom?
Most Saxifraga varieties bloom in late spring, early spring, late spring to early summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Saxifraga should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.