Fortune's Saxifrage Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' (fortunei) (5)
ABOUT
Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' is a vibrant and attractive plant that is noteworthy for its dense mats of small, rosette-shaped foliage. The rosettes are composed of numerous delicate-looking leaves that are often green with a hint of red or bronze, particularly at the edges, giving the foliage a dynamic and colorful aspect. Throughout the growing season, these leaves may transition through varying shades, exhibiting a lively array of color. In addition to its charming foliage, this plant bursts into a display of dainty flowers. The blossoms are typically small and star-shaped, radiating from the center and often appearing in clusters. These flowers are predominantly white, but may also show touches of pink or red, adding to the plant's ornamental appeal. These blooms are held aloft on fine, wiry stems that rise above the cushion of leaves below, creating an airy and graceful floral presentation that is visually captivating. Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' has a robust yet delicate aesthetic that can enhance a variety of garden settings. Its foliage provides a lush, carpet-like effect, while its blossoms contribute a sprinkle of light and color that can enrapture the eye of any garden enthusiast. Overall, the plant exudes a whimsical charm that can soften and embellish a garden's landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Fortune's Saxifrage, Angelina's Saxifrage, Ironclad Saxifrage, Fortunes' Rockfoil, Angelina Johnson Saxifrage.
Common names
Saxifraga fortunei.
ToxicityTo humans
Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' (fortunei), commonly known as Fortune’s Saxifrage, is not known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it is advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the plant as it is not considered edible and could potentially cause mild stomach upset if consumed in large quantities.
To pets
Fortune’s Saxifrage is not known to be toxic to pets. While it is always recommended to prevent pets from eating plants, there should not be serious consequences if a pet were to ingest a small amount of this plant. However, ingestion in significant quantities might lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' adds visual interest to gardens with its attractive foliage and dainty flowers.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is known for its easy care and minimal maintenance requirements, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it displays a degree of drought resistance, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: It is resilient in cold temperatures, making it a good choice for gardens in cooler climates.
- Ground Cover: The plant's growth habit makes it an excellent ground cover, helping to reduce weeds and soil erosion.
- Rock Gardens: With its ability to thrive in rocky and alpine conditions, it is a perfect addition to rock gardens or crevices in stone walls.
- Container Gardening: Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' can be grown in containers, where its trailing habit can be showcased on balconies or patios.
- Seasonal Interest: It offers seasonal interest with changes in leaf color, particularly in autumn when leaves can turn bronzy-orange.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson', commonly known as Mossy Saxifrage, can be used to create a living mulch in garden beds, suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture.
- It can serve as an indicator plant; since it thrives in well-draining soil, difficulty in its growth can signal poor soil conditions in your garden.
- Mossy Saxifrage can be used in between stepping stones or pavers, as it can tolerate light foot traffic and fills in nicely.
- This plant can be utilized in rock gardens for its ability to adapt to crevices and its aesthetic appeal among stones and boulders.
- Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' can be employed in miniature and fairy gardens due to its small size and enchanting appearance.
- It can be used to stabilize sloping gardens, as its root system helps to prevent soil erosion on inclines.
- This plant may be utilized in frost-heaving prevention, as its evergreen foliage protects the soil from extreme temperature changes.
- Mossy Saxifrage can be part of sensory gardens, with its textured foliage offering a tactile experience along with visual interest.
- It serves well for winter garden interest as it maintains its foliage and structure during the colder months.
- Finally, Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson' can be planted in containers to adorn balconies or patios, adding greenery and charm to small outdoor spaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Saxifrage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Saxifrage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Strength and Resilience: The name "Saxifraga" comes from the Latin "saxum" (rock) and "frangere" (to break), symbolizing the plant's ability to grow and thrive in rocky areas, suggesting inner strength and the ability to overcome challenges.
- Tenacity: Saxifraga plants often grow in difficult conditions, clinging to their habitat with determination, which can be seen as a symbol of tenacity and perseverance.
- Enduring Love: With its delicate blossoms that return year after year, Saxifraga can symbolize an enduring, steadfast love that persists despite hardships.
- Protection: In some traditions, plants that grow in harsh, rocky environments are believed to possess protective qualities, making Saxifraga a symbol for sheltering against adversity.
- Adaptability: Given the plant's ability to adapt to less-than-ideal conditions, Saxifraga can also symbolize flexibility and the ability to thrive in various environments.
WaterThe Strawberry Begonia should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically equates to once a week. However, it's crucial to adjust the frequency based on the moisture level of the soil and the humidity in the environment. When watering, use room temperature water and gently pour around the base of the plant, avoiding the leaves, until the water begins to run out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots are thoroughly watered. On average, you might use about 16 to 24 ounces of water, but this can vary depending on the size of the plant and pot.
LightStrawberry Begonia thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. The best spot for this plant is near an east or north-facing window where it can receive gentle morning light or soft filtered afternoon light. Direct sunlight, especially during the hot afternoon hours, should be avoided to prevent leaf burn.
TemperatureStrawberry Begonia prefers temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth, and it can survive in a range as wide as 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, avoid sudden temperature changes and harsh drafts which could stress the plant. The ideal condition is a stable environment with moderate temperatures.
PruningPruning Strawberry Begonia is mainly done to remove any brown or damaged leaves and to maintain its shape. This should be done as needed throughout the year, but the best time for a more thorough trim is in the spring. Gently snip off the undesirable parts with clean, sharp scissors to promote healthy growth and a neat appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilStrawberry Begonia requires a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0. An ideal soil recipe would include a combination of peat, perlite, and organic compost to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingStrawberry Begonias should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Spring is the best time for repotting this plant.
Humidity & MistingStrawberry Begonia thrives at a high humidity level, around 60-70%, mimicking its native habitat's moist conditions. Consistent humidity is crucial for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Part shade, moist soil, protect from direct sun.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleSaxifraga 'Angelina Johnson', commonly known as Fortune's Saxifrage, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates when conditions of light, temperature, and moisture are favorable. The seedling emerges, establishing a small rosette of leaves, and as it matures, it develops a root system that anchors the plant and absorbs nutrients from the soil. As the plant grows, it forms a dense clump with its distinctive, often evergreen leaves, and the saxifrage may produce several offsets. When the plant reaches maturity, it sends up flowering stalks adorned with small, star-shaped flowers, usually in shades of white, pink, or red, which are pollinated by insects, leading to seed formation. After pollination and seed set, the plant may go through a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates where it dies back to the ground before resurfacing in spring. Throughout its life, Fortune's Saxifrage can also reproduce vegetatively through division, whereby sections of the plant are separated and replanted to produce new clumps.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Saxifraga 'Angelina Johnson', commonly known as Saxifrage or Rockfoil, is a perennial plant that is often propagated through division. The best time to propagate Saxifrage is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate Saxifrage by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a portion of the root system. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that they are spaced adequately to allow room for growth. Water the new divisions well and keep them in a shaded area until they are established, which usually takes a few weeks. This method maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and results in new plants that will mature faster than those propagated by seed.
