Mossy Saxifrage

(Saxifraga hypnoides)

Mossy Saxifrage (Saxifraga hypnoides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Saxifraga hypnoides, commonly known as Mossy Saxifrage, is a perennial herb that is native to alpine and subalpine zones in northwestern Europe, including Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Norway, Ireland, Great Britain, Belgium, and France. It thrives in cool, moist environments such as rocky outcrops, grassy slopes, and crevices in high elevation areas. The plant typically forms low, cushion-like mats with small, evergreen leaves that resemble moss, hence the common name. Saxifraga hypnoides produces small, white, star-shaped flowers with five petals that bloom in late spring to early summer, creating a delicate and attractive display.

Mossy Saxifrage is valued for its ability to grow in rocky, less fertile soils and its use in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and as ground cover. Its preference for cool, moist conditions makes it suitable for northern climates and shaded garden areas. It requires well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun. While it is not prone to many diseases, it can suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet. This plant is not known for being invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for cultivation in a variety of settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to alpine and subalpine zones in northwestern Europe, thriving in cool, moist environments such as rocky outcrops, grassy slopes, and crevices in high elevation areas

Other Names

Common Names: Livelong Saxifrage, Moss Saxifrage

Scientific Names: , Saxifraga hypnoides, Chondrosea intermedia, Evaiezoa hirta, Hexaphoma viscida, Hirculus gracilis, Muscaria basaitica, Muscaria basaltica, Muscaria helviensis, Muscaria hypnoides

GBIF Accepted Name: