Also known as Saxifrage · 140 saves
Saxifraga
Saxifraga, the genus most gardeners know as saxifrage. We track 6 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 6 most-saved Saxifraga varieties
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 6 most-grown of them.
The Saxifraga year
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March100% of varieties
Tidy up dead or damaged foliage before new growth starts.
- PropagateApril–September83% of varieties
Propagate by pinning down runners or dividing clumps.
- FertilizeMarch50% of varieties
Apply a light, balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring.
- DivideMarch50% of varieties
Divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years in spring or fall.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October33% of varieties
Plant in spring or fall in well-draining, shaded spot.
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 |
| Slugs | Irregular holes in leaves | Use organic slug bait or handpick at night |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and improve air circulation |
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 6 distinct Saxifraga varieties. The most popular — ranked by 140 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.