English Saxifrage Saxifraga 'Cranbourne' (× anglica) (7)
ABOUT
The Saxifraga 'Cranbourne', commonly known as London Pride, displays a rosette of spoon-shaped leaves that are often a bright green color. These leaves are sometimes tinged with reddish or purplish hues at the edges, adding to the plant's visual appeal. In the right conditions, it will produce delicate flower stalks that bear small, star-shaped flowers. These blooms are usually a soft pink or white and can have red spots on their petals. The flowers cluster at the top of the stems, creating a frothy, airy appearance that contrasts well with the dense foliage below. The plant's overall form is low and mounding, making it a charming ground cover or rock garden specimen. Its leaves and flowers both have a fine, subtle texture that draws the eye and invites closer inspection.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Saxifragaceae
Synonyms
English Saxifrage, Hybrid Saxifrage, Cranbourne Saxifrage
Common names
Saxifraga × anglica.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common common name for Saxifraga 'Cranbourne' (× anglica) is English Saxifrage. English Saxifrage is not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, it is considered safe, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning or toxicity from ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant material, individuals may have varying sensitivities, and it is always advised to err on the side of caution and not ingest plant parts unless they are known to be safe for consumption.
To pets
English Saxifrage, the most common common name for Saxifraga 'Cranbourne' (× anglica), is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs. There should be no symptoms of poisoning in pets from ingesting this plant. However, it's still wise to prevent pets from eating plants as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some rare cases.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
12 inches (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Saxifraga 'Cranbourne' can survive in dry conditions, making it suitable for rock gardens and areas with lower water availability.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once established, which makes it ideal for gardeners looking for plants that do not need constant upkeep.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its attractive foliage and delicate flowers, it adds visual interest and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Wildlife: Its flowers can attract beneficial insects such as bees, which are important for pollination.
- Suitable for Alpines and Rockeries: This plant is well-suited for alpine gardens and rockeries where it can complement other stone-loving species.
- Tolerance to Cold: It is hardy in many climates and can withstand cold temperatures, which is beneficial for gardens in cooler regions.
- Ground Cover: It can effectively cover the ground, helping to reduce weed growth and soil erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photographic Subjects: Saxifraga, with its delicate flowers, can serve as an ideal subject for macro photography, teaching photographers to capture the intricate details of plant life.
- Education and Research: Saxifraga can be used in educational settings, such as schools or botanical gardens, to demonstrate plant growth, survival strategies in rocky habitats, and crossbreeding principles.
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists may use Saxifraga as a muse for botanical illustration, watercolor painting, or any art form that draws inspiration from the natural world.
- Garden Design Patterns: By planting Saxifraga in specific layouts, gardeners can create interesting patterns or 'garden tapestries' when the plant is in bloom.
- Living Mulch: With its dense growth habit, Saxifraga can be used as living mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds in garden beds.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly eaten, the non-toxic leaves and flowers of Saxifraga could potentially be used as an ornamental garnish for culinary dishes, adding a touch of elegance.
- Ecosystem Support: Providing habitat and food for a variety of insects, Saxifraga contributes to the local ecosystem by supporting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Collector's Item: Botanical enthusiasts and collectors may value rare hybrids and cultivars of Saxifraga for their uniqueness and the challenge they present in cultivation.
- Living Walls and Green Roofs: Saxifraga can be incorporated into vertical gardens or green roofs thanks to its shallow root system and ability to tolerate limited substrate depth.
- Crafts and Decoration: The flowers and foliage of Saxifraga, when dried, can be incorporated into crafts such as potpourri, dried flower arrangements, or pressed flower artworks.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Saxifrage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Saxifrage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Determination: Saxifraga, commonly known as Saxifrage, embodies determination due to its ability to grow in rocky, seemingly inhospitable environments, symbolizing the idea of overcoming adversity and thriving in difficult conditions.
- Tenacity: The Saxifrage is a symbol of tenacity as it clings to its rugged habitats, representing the toughness and persistence needed to hold onto one's place in the world despite challenges.
- Endurance: The plant signifies endurance for its perennial nature, surviving harsh winters and blooming each year, reflecting the ability to withstand time and hardship.
- Adaptability: Saxifrage's capacity to adapt to various terrains and altitudes makes it a symbol of adaptability, indicating flexibility and the skill to prosper in diverse conditions.
- Patience: Often taking time to establish themselves in new areas, Saxifrages symbolize patience, signifying the virtue of waiting calmly for success and growth.
WaterFor English Saxifrage, water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. During active growth in spring and summer, aim to water about once a week with roughly 8-16 ounces of water per square foot, depending on temperature and humidity. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows down, monitoring the soil moisture and only watering when the top inch feels dry. Be mindful of proper drainage to prevent root rot, using a watering can to water at the soil level and avoiding wetting the foliage.
LightEnglish Saxifrage thrives in partial to full sunlight, ideally receiving morning sun and afternoon shade. Protect it from the harsh midday sun, which can scorch its leaves. The best spot for English Saxifrage would be an east-facing garden that provides some shelter from intense afternoon rays or a spot with dappled sunlight throughout the day.
TemperatureEnglish Saxifrage prefers cool to moderate temperatures, thriving best between 50°F and 70°F. It is generally frost-tolerant and can survive brief exposures to temperatures as low as 20°F. Protect the plant from extreme heat by providing shade or mulch, as prolonged exposure to temperatures above 80°F can be detrimental.
PruningPrune English Saxifrage to remove dead or damaged leaves and to maintain its shape, typically after the flowering period in spring or early summer. This will encourage new growth and improve the plant's overall appearance. Trimming off spent flower stalks also helps prevent self-seeding and diverts energy back to the foliage. Prune annually or as needed to keep the plant tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilEnglish Saxifrage prefers well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, peat, and sharp sand or grit, with a pH range of slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingEnglish Saxifrage should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingEnglish Saxifrage thrives best in moderate humidity levels, avoiding both very dry and overly humid conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright light, cool room, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade, moist well-draining soil, protect from hot sun.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleSaxifraga 'Cranbourne', commonly known as English Saxifrage, begins its life as a seed, which upon finding the right conditions of moisture and temperature, germinates and develops a small root system and a rosette of leaves. The young plant gradually matures and forms a more extensive root system and a denser foliage clump. As it enters the flowering stage, stems arise from the rosette bearing clusters of small white flowers, usually in the spring. After pollination, often by insects, these flowers develop into capsules containing seeds. Once the seeds are dispersed, they can lead to the establishment of new plants if they land in suitable conditions. Eventually, as the plant ages and environmental conditions fluctuate, it may die back, particularly after flowering, but can also regenerate from the roots or offsets in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Saxifraga 'Cranbourne' (× anglica), commonly known as Londonpride, is best propagated by division, a process frequently carried out in the spring or early fall. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant, ensuring to maintain a good root ball, and gently separate it into smaller sections by teasing apart the roots with your fingers or cutting them with a sharp knife. Each section should have a portion of the roots and several shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were growing before and water them thoroughly. This method stimulates new growth and helps maintain the health and vigor of your Londonpride.
