Mossy Saxifrage Saxifraga 'Paul Rubens' (7)

Water

Mossy Saxifrage, which is the common name for Saxifraga 'Paul Rubens', prefers consistently moist soil but does not like to be overwatered. It's important to allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Depending on the environmental conditions, this might mean watering approximately every week with around 8-16 ounces of water. During hot, dry periods, you might need to water it more frequently, while in cooler or more humid conditions, it may require less frequent watering. Always check the soil moisture level before adding water to prevent root rot.

Light

Mossy Saxifrage thrives in partial shade to full sun, making it versatile in terms of lighting conditions. It does best when it's protected from the harsh afternoon sun, so a spot that receives morning light and dappled afternoon shade is ideal. Ensure the plant receives a few hours of sunlight per day to maintain its health and vibrant foliage.

Temperature

The Mossy Saxifrage is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures but thrives in cooler conditions. Ideally, it should be kept in an environment where the temperature ranges from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive brief periods of cold down to about 10 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures to prevent damage.

Pruning

Prune Mossy Saxifrage to remove dead or yellowing leaves and encourage a compact growth habit. This can be done in early spring or after the plant has finished flowering. It's typically not necessary to prune more than once a year unless you are shaping the plant or controlling its spread in a garden setting. The best time for pruning is just after blooming to allow time for new growth before the colder months.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Mossy Saxifrage, which is the common name for Saxifraga 'Paul Rubens', should be well-draining with added grit or sharp sand. A blend of loamy soil, peat, and perlite or vermiculite can create the right environment. The preferred soil pH level for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.

Repotting

Mossy Saxifrage should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate the growth of the plant. It's important not to over-pot, so choose a container only slightly larger than the previous one.

Humidity & Misting

Mossy Saxifrage thrives in moderate humidity levels. While it can tolerate a range of humidity conditions, it prefers a level that is consistent with what is typically found in a household environment. Excessive humidity should be avoided to prevent rot.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light; water when top soil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Grow in partial shade, shelter from intense sun, and protect from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA

Life cycle

The Strawberry Begonia, despite its name, is not a true begonia but a saxifrage species. The life cycle begins with seed germination, which requires a moist, well-draining environment, typically in spring. Following germination, the seedlings grow into a rosette form with intricately patterned leaves. The plant then enters a vegetative stage, where it develops runners (stolons) that spread out and may form new plantlets at their tips, allowing the plant to propagate asexually. During its blooming period, usually in late spring to early summer, the Strawberry Begonia produces clusters of attractive pink or white flowers on tall, slender stalks. After flowering, seeds are produced and dispersed, completing the cycle if they find suitable conditions for germination.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Saxifraga 'Paul Rubens', commonly known as Mossy Saxifrage, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method used for this plant. The best time to divide Mossy Saxifrage is in the early spring or just after the plant has flowered. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into smaller segments, ensuring that each segment has a portion of the roots intact. It is critical to replant the divisions quickly to prevent the roots from drying out. It is recommended to plant the divisions at the same depth they were growing previously and to water them well. This method is straightforward and helps to rejuvenate older clumps that might be woody or nonproductive at their center, encouraging healthier growth and maintaining the vigor of the plant.