Fortune's Saxifrage Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' (fortunei) (5)
ABOUT
Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' is a perennial plant known for its attractive features that add charm to garden spaces. It has a low-growing, mound-forming habit, which creates a compact appearance. The leaves of the plant are small, rounded, and often have a slightly scalloped edge, presenting a lush, evergreen carpet that remains visually appealing throughout the year. These leaves are typically a bright green color, providing a fresh, vibrant groundcover. The beauty of Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' is most evident when it blooms. The flowers are carried on slender, upright stems that rise above the foliage. These blossoms are star-shaped, hence the name 'Conwy Star', and they have a delicate and airy look. They are usually a soft pink or white color that contrasts nicely against the green leaves, and they form in clusters, creating a delightful, frothy effect. The blooming period for Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' adds a splash of color to the planting area when many other plants may not be in their prime. It is also known to attract pollinators, such as bees, with its flowers. Overall, Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' is a charming and decorative plant. Its appealing growth pattern and striking floral displays make it a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and as an ornamental ground cover.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae.
Synonyms
Saxifrage, Rockfoil.
Common names
Saxifraga fortunei 'Conwy Star'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Saxifraga 'Conwy Star', commonly known as Saxifrage, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases or reports of poisoning from ingesting this plant, so it is generally considered safe from a toxicity perspective. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants, as they are not meant for consumption and individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur.
To pets
The Saxifrage is not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. There are no reports of significant toxicity associated with the ingestion of this plant by pets. While it is not considered poisonous, it is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants not intended for consumption, as individual animals might experience gastrointestinal upset or other mild symptoms due to plant material that their bodies are not accustomed to digesting.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' features distinctive, ornamental leaves that provide visual interest in the garden.
- Ground Cover: Its low-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for filling spaces and covering bare soil, reducing weed growth.
- Rock Gardens: It's particularly well-suited for rock gardens or alpine garden settings due to its tolerance for rocky, well-drained soils.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it a convenient option for gardeners of all levels.
- Cold Hardy: The plant is resistant to cold temperatures, making it a hardy addition to a garden in cooler climates.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' can be used in miniature gardens or fairy gardens due to its small size and attractive foliage, which adds whimsy and charm to these creative spaces.
- As a photographic subject, the detailed patterns and unique star-shaped blooms provide a beautiful close-up shot for nature photographers.
- This plant can be employed in educational settings such as schools or botanical workshops to teach about alpine plant species and rock garden cultivation.
- The Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' can be used in ornamental borders alongside footpaths, where its low growth habit prevents it from obstructing the path.
- It may be incorporated into living walls or vertical gardens in temperate climates, adding texture and interest due to its cascading growth.
- This plant is suitable for growing in trough gardens, which are shallow containers meant to mimic alpine growing conditions.
- In artistic landscaping, Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' can be used to create natural mosaic patterns when planted in clusters with other rock garden plants.
- This variety can be used for plant competitions and exhibitions, showcasing the skill of growing and maintaining alpine plants.
- It can serve as a natural mulch or ground cover in garden beds, helping to retain moisture and suppress weeds with its dense foliage.
- Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' can be used for modeling projects or dioramas, where accurate representations of landscape scenarios are needed.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Starry Saxifrage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Starry Saxifrage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance: Saxifraga, which is part of the name Saxifraga 'Conwy Star', comes from the Latin words "saxum" (stone) and "frangere" (to break). The plant is symbolic for its ability to grow in cracks of rocks, indicating an ability to thrive in challenging conditions and thus symbolizes perseverance.
- Tenacity: This plant's capability to cling to harsh and inhospitable environments, just like its generic ancestors, is seen as a metaphor for tenacity in life, holding onto one’s place in the world despite adversity.
- Protection: In some traditions, Saxifraga species have been used to ward off evil, suggesting that the plant could represent a form of protection or a shield against negative forces.
- Longevity: Saxifraga plants are known for their longevity, often surviving in nature for many years, symbolizing endurance over time and a long life.
- Affection: With its delicate, star-shaped flowers, Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' could represent a blooming affection or growing love, implying the plant symbolizes blossoming relationships and tender care.
WaterFor the Strawberry Begonia, water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once a week, although this may vary with environmental conditions. Provide enough water so that it runs through the drainage holes, indicating the soil is saturated. In general, you might use up to 16 ounces of water for a small pot each time you water. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant requires less moisture due to slower growth. Avoid letting the plant sit in water as this can lead to root rot.
LightStrawberry Begonia thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate shade. Place the plant in a north or east-facing window for optimal light exposure without direct sun that can scorch the leaves. This plant will appreciate a few hours of morning light or late afternoon sun, provided it isn't too intense.
TemperatureStrawberry Begonia prefers cooler temperatures and does well in a range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can withstand temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but should not be exposed to temperatures below that as they may cause damage. Ideally, maintain a consistent temperature and avoid sudden drops which could stress the plant.
PruningPrune the Strawberry Begonia to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and encourage bushier growth. This is typically done in the spring or after flowering. Deadheading spent flowers can also promote a tidier appearance and possibly more blooms. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the year to maintain shape and remove any unsightly or damaged growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Saxifraga 'Conwy Star', commonly known as Starry Saxifrage, is a well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, peat, and sharp sand to ensure good drainage and aeration. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 5.5 and 7.0. Adding organic matter like leaf mold can also be beneficial for nutrient content and soil structure.
RepottingStarry Saxifrage should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one as these plants prefer to be somewhat root-bound.
Humidity & MistingStarry Saxifrage thrives at moderate humidity levels around 50% to 70%. They can tolerate lower humidity but prefer consistent moisture in the air for optimal growth and health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe Saxifraga 'Conwy Star', also known as Starry Saxifrage, begins its life as a seed that germinates in spring or early summer, in cool, moist conditions. Upon germination, the seedling develops into a rosette of leaves close to the ground, a stage that can last several weeks to a few months, during which the plant establishes a root system and accumulates resources. In its first or second year, the plant progresses to the vegetative stage, producing more foliage and sometimes forming a dense cushion or mat as it matures. Once the plant reaches maturity, it enters the flowering stage, producing star-shaped white flowers with distinctive red dots, typically blooming in late spring to summer, depending on the climate. After pollination, the plant sets seed, which is then dispersed by wind or water, allowing new plants to grow elsewhere. Finally, in the autumn, the plant may die back partially, with some parts of the plant entering dormancy during the cold winter months, only to resume growth in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' is through division, which is best done in the spring as new growth is emerging. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant from the ground using a garden fork or spade, ensuring to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Gently tease apart the clumps into smaller sections, each having several rosettes of leaves and adequate roots. These sections can then be immediately replanted into well-draining soil, spaced about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish the root system. This method is efficient for Saxifraga 'Conwy Star' as it helps to rejuvenate older clumps while simultaneously creating new plants.
