Saxifraga parnassifolia

Parnassus-leaved saxifrage

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Parnassus-leaved saxifrage

Context

nativeRegion

Mountainous regions of Europe, especially the Alps and Carpathians.

usdaZones

4–8

companionPlants

Primula species, Gentiana species, Draba species

culturalUses

Valued in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and for naturalistic plantings. Historically sometimes used in traditional medicine as astringent.

Care

LightPrefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.

WateringNeeds consistently moist soil; avoid waterlogging but do not allow to dry out completely.

SoilThrives in well-drained, humus-rich, alkaline to neutral soils; prefers gravelly or rocky substrates.

FertilizerLight feeding in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer; avoid excessive fertilization.

HumidityModerate humidity is ideal, typical of alpine or woodland environments.

TemperatureHardy to cold temperatures; tolerates frost and snow, best grown in cool to temperate climates.

HabitEvergreen perennial forming low, dense rosettes of fleshy, round leaves.

Mature Size10–20 cm tall and 20–30 cm wide.

Growth RateModerate, faster in ideal alpine or cool moist conditions.

BloomingProduces clusters of small, pink to white flowers in late spring to early summer.

DormancySemi-dormant in winter; foliage may persist depending on conditions.

MethodsDivision, Seed, Basal cuttings

DifficultyModerate—seed germination can be slow; division is most reliable.

Best SeasonEarly spring for division; late spring or summer for seed sowing.

PruningRemove spent flower stems and dead leaves after blooming to maintain appearance.

RepottingRepot container specimens every 2–3 years or when clumps outgrow their space.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-free but may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils; occasional aphids or fungal leaf spots.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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