Strawberry Begonia Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' (fortunei) (5)
ABOUT
Saxifraga 'Sue Drew', commonly known as Saxifrage, is an ornamental plant that has quite an attractive and distinct look. The Saxifrage sports lush, green leaves that are usually rounded with a slightly serrated edge, resembling a scalloped pattern. These leaves form a low-growing, dense mound that serves as a backdrop to the plant's striking floral display. The flowers are the standout feature of the Saxifrage 'Sue Drew'; they bloom prolifically and can give the plant a frothy appearance. The blossoms themselves are dainty, star-shaped, and typically white or pale pink. They are carried on delicate stalks that arise from the foliage, creating a delicate and airy effect. Each flower is comprised of five petals, and they are often arranged in panicles or loose clusters, which adds to the visual interest of the plant. The stamens and pistils may be visible in the center of the flowers, protruding slightly and adding a touch of contrasting color. The foliage and the blooms together give the Saxifrage a captivating, textured look that is highly prized in rock gardens and alpine displays. Its delicate flowers can add a touch of charm and whimsy to the garden, and its robust foliage provides a strong visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sue Drew Saxifrage, Fortune's Saxifrage, Robust Saxifrage.
Common names
Saxifraga fortunei, Saxifraga cortusifolia var. fortunei.
ToxicityTo humans
Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' is generally not toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence or indication that suggests this plant poses any significant risk of poisoning if ingested. It is considered safe around humans, and accidental ingestion typically doesn't lead to serious health consequences. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants as a precaution, and to seek medical advice if any adverse reactions are observed after ingestion.
To pets
Saxifraga 'Sue Drew', commonly referred to as just Saxifraga, is not known to be toxic to pets. It is considered to be a non-toxic plant species for cats, dogs, and other household pets. Consequently, ingestion of this plant should not cause any significant symptoms of poisoning in pets. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the ingestion of non-digestible matter, so it is a good practice to monitor pets and prevent them from eating ornamental plants. If you suspect your pet is suffering from any health issues after ingesting this plant, consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
12 inches (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' adds aesthetic value to gardens with its attractive foliage and delicate flowers.
- Low maintenance: It is generally easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep beyond basic watering and occasional feeding.
- Cold hardiness: This plant is capable of withstanding colder temperatures, making it suitable for a variety of climates.
- Ground cover: Its growth habit makes it ideal for use as ground cover, filling in spaces and suppressing weeds.
- Rock gardens: Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' is well-suited to rock gardens, where its rosettes and blooms complement the stones.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' can be used as a natural art medium. The unique foliage and flowers of this plant can be incorporated into botanical prints and eco-dyeing fabric techniques.
- The plant has potential as a natural dye source. Depending on the pH levels, the leaves and petals may produce different hues, which can be used to dye textiles or paper.
- It serves as inspiration for photography and painting. The intricate flower clusters and foliage present a challenge and subject matter for artists and photographers.
- This plant variety might be included in fairy gardens or miniature landscapes due to its small size and delicate form, providing a sense of scale and whimsy.
- As a component in ornamental wreaths or floral arrangements, the small blooms of Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' add a dainty and elegant touch to handcrafted decorations.
- The plant can be used in educational settings teaching about alpine ecosystems, as it can simulate the plants found in those unique environments.
- It can be a natural confetti, where dried petals are tossed at celebrations like weddings, offering a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti.
- It might serve as a way to study frost resistance in plants, since certain Saxifraga species are known to survive in cold climates with frost-tolerant adaptations.
- The leaf texture could be used in sensory gardens, providing a tactile experience for visitors, especially those with visual impairments.
- In culinary arts, though not for consumption, the visual appeal of Saxifraga 'Sue Drew' may inspire cake decorators or food stylists for designing dessert garnishes that mimic the plant's beauty.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSaxifraga is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySaxifraga is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Saxifraga, also known as rockfoil, is a symbol of endurance and tenacity because of its ability to thrive in rocky, challenging environments.
- Persistence: The plant's penchant for growing in seemingly inhospitable places makes it a symbol of persistence and the ability to persevere through tough conditions.
- Adaptability: Rockfoil embodies adaptability, showing that life can flourish in diverse conditions, adapting to the challenges it faces.
- Strength: The Saxifraga is symbolic of strength, referring to its strong roots that can break through even the toughest of stones.
- Timelessness: Given its association with ancient rocks and persistence through time, rockfoil can symbolize timelessness and everlasting qualities.
WaterWater Strawberry Saxifrage regularly to maintain evenly moist but not waterlogged soil, especially during its growing season in spring and summer. Generally, watering approximately once a week with about 16 ounces of water should suffice, but this can vary depending on climate conditions and soil type. During the colder months, reduce the frequency to once every two weeks or less, depending on the soil's dryness. It’s best to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering, as overwatering can be detrimental to the plant’s health.
LightStrawberry Saxifrage thrives in locations with partial shade to filtered sunlight. Direct, harsh sunlight can damage the leaves, so it's ideal to place it in a spot that receives morning light or dappled shade throughout the day. An east or north-facing window or a spot with a sheer curtain can provide the right amount of light indoors. Outdoors, Strawberry Saxifrage benefits from the protection of taller plants or structures that provide intermittent shade.
TemperatureStrawberry Saxifrage prefers cool to moderate temperatures, thriving in a range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can damage the plant. Provide protection from extreme cold and avoid exposure to temperatures exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods, as high heat can stress the plant.
PruningPrune Strawberry Saxifrage to remove dead or damaged foliage and to maintain a compact growth habit. It's best to prune in early spring before new growth begins, which encourages healthier, denser foliage. Light pruning can also be done throughout the growing season to shape the plant and remove any spent flower stems. Regular pruning helps to rejuvenate the plant and keeps it looking its best.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor the Saxifrage or Rockfoil, create a mix with equal parts loam, peat moss, and sharp sand to ensure good drainage. The ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, preferably between 5.5 and 7.0.
RepottingSaxifrage, commonly known as Rockfoil, should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingSaxifrage, also known as Rockfoil, thrives best in moderate humidity levels, typically around 50-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Rockfoil in bright, indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant Rockfoil in partial shade with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
6-8 USDA
Life cycleSaxifraga 'Sue Drew' (fortunei) (5), commonly known as the Fortune's Saxifrage, begins its life cycle when seeds are dispersed and successfully germinate in moist, well-drained soil in a shady environment. Seedlings develop a basal rosette of leaves as they mature into vegetative plants. The plant undergoes vegetative growth, producing more leaves and strengthening its root system to anchor itself and absorb nutrients and water more effectively. Upon reaching maturity, the Fortune's Saxifrage produces flower stalks adorned with panicles of white or pinkish flowers, typically in the spring or early summer. After pollination, which is often assisted by insects, the plant sets seed, completing its reproductive cycle. Finally, the plant may die back in harsh conditions but is perennial, so it can survive through its underground structures and regrow the following season, repeating the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Saxifraga 'Sue Drew', also known as Fortune's Saxifrage, is commonly propagated through division. This is often done in the spring or autumn when the plant is not in active growth. The gardener carefully lifts the parent plant from the ground, making sure to keep a good amount of soil around the roots. Using a sharp and clean knife, the clump is divided into smaller sections, each with a fair amount of roots and a few rosettes of leaves. These divisions are then replanted at the same depth they were growing at before, spaced about 6 to 12 inches (approximately 15 to 30 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth, and watered thoroughly to help establish the new plants.
