Overview
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga is a species of flowering plant in the Apiaceae family. It is commonly known as Burnet saxifrage or Rock-biting saxifrage and has a long history of traditional medicinal use.
Origin
Burnet saxifrage is found in many parts of Europe, North Africa, and Asia, where it grows in rocky habitats that are often wet and nutrient-poor. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is now considered a limited invasive species.
Appearance
Burnet saxifrage is a perennial plant that grows up to 60cm in height. It has a hairless stem that is reddish-purple and produces highly-divided, fern-like leaves. The flowers are small and white, and grow in umbrella-like clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a small, oval-shaped seed.
Uses
Burnet saxifrage has a long history of traditional medicinal use, particularly for digestive and respiratory problems. It has been used as an expectorant, a diuretic, and a stimulant for digestion. In some countries, the plant is also used to treat fevers, coughs, and sore throats.
Burnet saxifrage is also used as a culinary herb and has a flavor similar to parsley. The leaves and roots of the plant are used as a spice to add flavor to soups, stews, and salads. It is a popular ingredient in traditional Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Italy, Greece, and Turkey.
In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, Burnet saxifrage is also used in landscaping and horticulture. Its delicate white flowers and fern-like leaves make it an attractive addition to rock gardens or as edging in garden beds.
Light Requirements
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant grows best in well-exposed locations where it can receive a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in cool to warm climates with an average temperature range between 10 and 20°C. Although it can tolerate occasional frosty conditions, persistent freezing temperatures will damage the plant significantly.
Soil Requirements
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga prefers well-draining soils that retain adequate moisture and nutrients. The ideal soil type for this plant is loamy soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant is also tolerant to poor and lesser fertile soils if supplemented with adequate fertilizers.
Cultivation
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga grows well in well-draining, fertile soil in a sunny or partially-shaded location. The plant prefers slightly alkaline soil with a pH ranging from 7.0 to 8.5. It can be grown from seed, and seeds should be planted in the spring. The plant can also propagate through rhizomes, stem cuttings, or root division.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil evenly moist, especially when the plant is establishing. Once the plant is established, it is drought-tolerant but still requires regular watering. However, it is essential not to overwater as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Watering deeply once a week should be enough to keep the plant healthy.
Fertilization
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga does not require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help the plant's growth. Applying organic compost around the plant can also be an excellent way to provide nutrients. It is crucial not to over-fertilize as it can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga does not require extensive pruning. However, pruning the plant in the spring can promote bushier growth and improve its overall appearance. Choose some of the older stems and cut them back to the ground. The plant will regrow from the base quickly. Deadheading can also be beneficial to encourage more blooms.
Propagation of Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga can be propagated by both seed and vegetative methods.
Seeds
The plant produces small seeds contained in a round fruit. The fruit turns brown and splits open when the seeds are mature. The seeds can be collected at this point and stored in a cool, dry place until sowing time. For best results, sow the seeds in the fall, directly in the garden bed. Alternatively, the seeds can be stratified by placing them in the refrigerator for a period of 4-6 weeks before planting in early spring.
Division and Cuttings
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga can also be propagated by division or cuttings. To divide the plant, dig it up in early spring, and gently separate the plant into sections, making sure each section has at least one healthy root and some stems and leaves. Replant the divided sections in the desired location.
Cuttings can be taken in early summer when the plant is in full growth. Take 2-3 inch stem sections and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and then plant in a soilless mix. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in a bright, warm location until they have rooted.
Disease Management
Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga can be affected by various diseases that can damage the plant. The most common diseases that may attack the plant are:
Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas syringae. It makes the leaves turn brown and die. To manage this disease, infected parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent its spread. In severe cases, the use of copper fungicides can control the disease.
Root Rot: The fungal pathogens Phytophthora and Pythium can cause root rot in Pimpinella saxifraga. This disease causes wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, infected plants must be removed and destroyed. It is also essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora pimpinellae and causes the leaves to form circular, dark-brown spots. To control this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy infected parts of the plant, followed by the application of copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management
Pests can also attack Pimpinella saxifraga L. ssp. saxifraga, causing damage to the plant. Some common pests that may attack the plant are:
Sawfly: Sawfly larvae can feed on the leaves of Pimpinella saxifraga, causing significant damage to the plant. To control sawfly infestations, it is essential to remove them by hand and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to repel them.
Slugs and Snails: These pests can leave holes in the leaves of the plant and sometimes eat the stem as well. To control slugs and snails, it is recommended to use organic methods like beer traps, diatomaceous earth, and copper barriers.
Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To control aphids, it is essential to use insecticidal soap or neem oil to repel them away from the plant.
Regular monitoring of the plant can help detect the presence of diseases and pests at an early stage. Preventive measures like practicing good sanitation, crop rotation, and maintaining proper plant hygiene can help to manage diseases and pests effectively.
