The botanical saxifrage Saxifraga is represented by numerous species that do well in sunny and dry locations, but not only.There are also exceptions with completely different tastes.These include the autumn-blooming Saxifraga cortusifolia with many varieties. This group of saxifiers feels best in sheltered places under trees and shrubs with fertile, acidic humus soil.
Under optimal conditions, the saxifrage reaches a height of 40 cm. The flowers that develop from September to November are a picturesque expression of her well-being. Young plants planted after the last spring frosts and well-fed will certainly pay off with a long and spectacular flowering.To the long-known saxifrage Saxifraga cortusifolia var. fortunei with the 'Rubrifolia' and 'Maigrün' varieties have recently joined the large-flowered and beautifully colored Japanese forms of Saxifraga cortusifolia var. incisolobata and Saxifraga cortusifolia var. obtusocuneata.
For example, the German horticultural company Peters aus Uetersen offers around 120 East Asian varieties. They are distinguished by a special cycle of vegetation.They come to life quite late in the spring.Then throughout the summer they decorate the bed with nicely shaped, colorful leaves. It is only in October, when the garden season is actually coming to an end, that they develop charming delicate flowers gathered in loose inflorescence panicles.
The color palette of single flowers includes light shades of green, yellow, through white, pink to dark red tones, and purple.JAponian varieties of saxifrage are actually plants intended for avid gardeners.However, once they become established in the garden, they can be successfully propagated by dividing the root ball.
In the autumn garden, clumps of frost-resistant saxifrage varieties perfectly match the Japanese dwarf maples or other shrubs with varied coloration. They also form picturesque groups with ferns, epimediums, cranberries, funki or hepatica. The great advantage of saxifiers is their high resistance to attacks by most pests and diseases.However, when a gluttonous swelling appears on the flowerbed, you should reach for agents with predatory nematodes.
Secrets of care
The varieties of the saxifrage like fresh, humus and fertile soil, especially moist, especially in winter . They feel best in semi-shaded places under trees and shrubs.
Plants do well even in unfavorable conditions.They do not need extraordinary care and constant supervision. In the spring, we supply them with a spare dose of fertilizer with a higher content of phosphorus and potassium and a reduced amount of nitrogen. Regular composts are also recommended.Pruning is not necessary as the leaves dry up by themselves at the end of autumn.
A good time to plant saxifrages is early spring from March to April.
Young specimens of the saxifrage variety planted in September or October often do not have enough time to develop a strong root system before winter. Early frosts will cause the plants to dry out, as the ungrown roots cannot absorb enough water.Therefore, the spring term is better, especially when there are no more late frosts.
Charming varieties of saxifrage in fertile garden soil
1. Arends saxifrage is a hybrid resulting from the crossing of various types of saxifrages. This species is recommended primarily for rock gardens, it likes shaded and humid places. In the sun, it requires more frequent watering.
2. 'Kanna' develops dark pink flowers in the fall.There is some confusion with her name . It is often marketed as 'Kaori' or 'Fary Dust'.
3. 'Merlin' charms us with pale pink flowers. On closer inspection, you will notice a wreath of white stamens with red pollen bags surrounding the yellow center of the flower.
4. 'Masami' unfolds pink-red flowers over its dark green leaves.They decorate the rebate even in November.
5. 'Glückliches Mädchen' is a variety of Saxifraga cortusifolia var. incisolobata with long pink flower petals.
6. 'Elegance' boasts creamy-white flowers that nicely brighten up darker corners of the garden.
7. 'Rote Stadt' is a large-flowered form of late-flowering saxifrage.
8. 'Pomona Sprout' has quite short flower petals.The edges of the bright, stiff, hairy leaves are decorated with red spots.
