Saxifraga hirculus
Saxifraga hirculus · Saxifragaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant saxifraga hirculus: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, in basal rosette
- Flowering
- July to September
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Slow to moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 4-8)
- Origin
- Arctic regions and mountains of Eurasia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, humus-rich, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but never waterlogged. Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry summers. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid standing water at the level of rosettes to prevent rot.
Light exposure
Prefer partial shade or light shade. In cool, humid climates, full sun exposure is possible. Protect from intense afternoon sun, especially in warm regions.
Soil
Use a substrate rich in organic matter, well-drained and slightly acidic. Improve the soil with leaf mould or compost. Loosen it before planting to encourage rooting.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove dead or damaged leaves regularly. After flowering, you can clean up withered stems. Little intervention necessary; this plant mainly requires discreet maintenance.
Fertilizer
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer in spring to stimulate growth. Moderate feeding is sufficient; excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
Watch for root or rosette rot in case of excess moisture. Aphids may occasionally affect the plant; treat with a water spray or gentle methods. Rust is rare but possible in very humid conditions.
Did you know?
The name "hirculus" comes from the Latin "hircus" meaning goat, as the leaves give off a characteristic odour reminiscent of goat. This golden saxifrage colonizes peatlands and wetlands in Arctic regions, where it plays an important ecological role in stabilizing fragile soils.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.