Winifred Bevington Saxifrage Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington' (8 × 11)

Water

For Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington', also known as mossy saxifrage, it is crucial to maintain evenly moist soil without overwatering, as the plant prefers well-drained conditions. Water the plant thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be approximately every week during active growth periods in spring and summer. During the dormant season in fall and winter, reduce watering frequency to every other week. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the soil around the roots, using approximately a quarter gallon for a pot size of 8 × 11 inches. Avoid letting the plant sit in waterlogged soil as this can cause root rot.

Light

Mossy saxifrage, including the variety Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington', thrives in partial shade to full sunlight conditions. The ideal spot would be where the plant gets bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day but is protected from the intense afternoon sun, which may scorch the delicate foliage. If grown indoors, a north or east-facing windowsill provides suitable light exposure.

Temperature

Mossy saxifrage is cold hardy and can tolerate temperature fluctuations. It usually survives in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and it can withstand a maximum of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington' is between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, as it prefers cooler conditions and may struggle in prolonged heat.

Pruning

Prune the Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington', or mossy saxifrage, to remove any dead or damaged foliage and to promote a compact, bushy growth habit. This should be done in early spring or just after flowering to encourage the formation of new buds. Deadheading spent flowers can also stimulate a second bloom. Pruning is typically required once a year, but the plant can be lightly groomed throughout the year to maintain its shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mossy Saxifrage, the common name for Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington', thrives in well-draining soil with added organic matter such as peat moss or compost. A mix of loam, peat, and sharp sand in equal parts is ideal, ensuring proper drainage and aeration. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, roughly between 5.5 and 7.0. Regularly adding leaf mold can help maintain the soil's structure and fertility.

Repotting

Mossy Saxifrage should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Spring is the best time for repotting, allowing the plant to establish itself before the growing season. Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the old one to avoid water retention which could lead to root rot.

Humidity & Misting

Mossy Saxifrage prefers moderate humidity levels but can tolerate a range of conditions. It is generally adaptable to indoor humidity levels found in homes. Although specific humidity requirements are not critical, avoid placing the plant in excessively dry conditions or near drying heat sources.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Mossy Saxifrage in bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant Mossy Saxifrage in partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington', also known as Winifred Bevington Saxifrage, begins with seed germination, which requires a well-draining substrate and cool temperatures, reflecting its alpine origins. After germination, the seedling grows into a vegetative plant with distinctive foliage and a compact growth habit. Maturation follows, wherein the Saxifrage develops a stout flowering stem and blooms with small, attractive flowers that are usually pink or red, often in the spring or early summer. Following pollination, which is typically by insects, the flowers will produce seeds, allowing for dispersal and propagation of the species. The plant then enters a period of dormancy, especially in colder climates, where it survives winter conditions, often with the help of specialized storage organs or a protective rosette of leaves. Throughout its lifetime, Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington' may also reproduce vegetatively through offsets, ensuring the continuation of the plant beyond a single season or individual flowering cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: Dividing the Saxifraga 'Winifred Bevington', commonly known as London Pride, is the most popular method of propagation for this plant. The best time to do so is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in full bloom and the temperatures are mild. To divide London Pride, carefully dig up the entire clump, making sure to lift the root ball with as little damage as possible. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, slice through the clump to create smaller sections, each with several rosettes and a portion of the root system. These sections can then be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Ensure that the divisions are watered thoroughly after planting to help establish them in their new location.