Pyrenean Saxifrage (Saxifraga longifolia)

Pyrenean Saxifrage

Saxifraga longifolia

Rosettes of silver foliage glow like frozen stars. Evergreen alpine perennial; common name: Pyrenean Saxifrage.

Full sun
2/week
Moderate
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; prefers cool, bright conditions; avoid intense midday summer sun in warm regions
💧
Watering Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging rosette centers to prevent rot
🌡️
Temperature Cool temperatures preferred; tolerate light frost down to -5°C; avoid prolonged heat above 22°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Silver-grey lanceolate basal leaves forming dense rosettes; covered in chalky, water-conserving secretion
  • Flower: Clusters of small white star-shaped blooms on slender upright stems
  • Stem: Thin, rigid flowering stems rising 20–30 cm above basal rosettes
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; avoid drying out completely during active growth

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to prioritize bloom production over lush foliage

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface; water in slowly to release calcium and maintain alkaline pH
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stems after blooming to redirect energy to rosette growth
  • Trim brown or damaged leaf tips to preserve neat rosette appearance
  • Thin overcrowded rosettes in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported health risks

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Alpine rock garden ornamental, container plant for cool windowsills