Plant Description:
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It can grow up to a height of 60 cm and has cylindrical, hollow stems with a diameter of 2-3 cm. The leaves of this plant are dark green and pinnate, with ovate and incised leaflets
Origin:
The plant is native to Europe and Western Asia and can be found growing in meadows, fields, and rocky slopes. It is commonly found in countries like France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom, among others.
Common Names:
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. Major L. is commonly known as Large Burnet-Saxifrage. It is also known as Roque, Sanicle, and Burnet.
Uses:
The plant has a variety of medicinal uses and is known for its antiseptic and diuretic properties. It is used to treat urinary tract infections, coughs, and colds. Large Burnet-Saxifrage is also used in the culinary industry to add flavor to salads, soups, and sauces. It is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. prefers to grow in areas that receive partial shade to full sun. This plant requires a minimum of 4-5 hours of sunlight per day, but too much direct sunlight can cause its leaves to turn yellow.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. is between 16-22°C (60-72°F). This plant is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate extremely low temperatures. It is recommended to avoid exposing it to temperatures below 0°C (32°F) to prevent its growth from being affected.
Soil Requirements
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soil with a pH level between 6.0-8.0. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy, and clay soils. However, the soil must be fertile, as this plant requires a significant amount of nutrients to grow optimally. It is recommended to add organic matter to the soil before planting to improve its quality and fertility.
Cultivation methods for Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L.
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. is a vigorous plant that can grow in a wide range of soil types. For optimal growth, it should be cultivated in well-drained soil that is enriched with organic matter. The plant is hardy and can endure light frosts, making it an ideal plant for outdoor cultivation in most regions. It can also be grown in containers, provided that it receives adequate nutrients and sunlight.
Watering needs
Regular watering is essential to the growth of Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. The plant needs to be watered frequently during the growing season to keep the soil consistently moist. However, it can withstand mild drought and does not require excessive watering. The frequency of watering should be reduced during the dormant season to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
Proper fertilization is crucial to the growth and development of Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. The plant should be fertilized annually with a balanced fertilizer to improve soil quality and provide essential nutrients. A slow-release fertilizer is ideal since it releases nutrients slowly over time, reducing the risk of fertilizer burn. Fertilizer application should be done in the early spring before new growth begins. However, excessive fertilizer can cause rapid growth and dilute the flavor of the plant's leaves.
Pruning
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. should be pruned regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain its shape. The plant should be pruned in late summer or early fall after flowering has ended. The rule of thumb is to prune no more than one-third of the plant's total growth to prevent the plant from getting stressed. Dead, diseased or damaged stems should be eliminated immediately to prevent the spread of the infection. Pruning at the right time and in the right manner can help to promote the plant's growth and improve its overall health.
Propagation of Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L.
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. or Large Burnet-Saxifrage is a hardy perennial plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The plant is a good bee plant that produces attractive flowers and aromatic leaves. It can be propagated through seeds, root division, and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. is through seeds. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or early summer. Before sowing, it is advisable to prepare the soil by removing weeds, stones, and debris. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix at a depth of 3 mm and spaced 30 cm apart. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds usually germinate within 14 to 21 days.
Propagation by Root Division
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. can also be propagated by root division. The best time to divide the roots is in the spring or fall. To divide the roots, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root mass into sections. Each section should have at least two or three healthy shoots and an adequate root system. Replant the sections in well-drained soil mix at the same depth as the original plant. Keep the soil moist until the plants are established.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another way to propagate Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. The cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer from the new growth. Cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should have a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings into rooting hormone powder before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location, but not in direct sunlight. The cuttings would root within four to six weeks.
Whether you choose to propagate Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. by seed, root division, or cuttings, be sure to water regularly, provide the proper soil nutrients, and protect the plants from pests and diseases. With proper care, these plants can provide you with years of beauty and fragrance.
Disease Management
Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L. is susceptible to a few diseases, such as rust, stem rot, and powdery mildew. To manage rust, remove infected leaves from the plant and dispose of them carefully. For stem rot, cut off the infected parts and improve soil drainage. Powdery mildew can be managed by improving air circulation, reducing humidity, and applying fungicide as necessary.
Pest Management
Several pests can damage Pimpinella saxifraga L. var. major L., including spider mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to leaves, and the best way to prevent them is to maintain a high level of humidity around the plant. Aphids can be easily controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leafhoppers can be removed by handpicking them and applying insecticide in severe cases.
