Origin
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén belongs to the family Saxifragaceae. It is a sub-species of Saxifraga bronchialis L. and is native to the high mountains of Europe and Asia.
Common Names
The common names of Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén include Cherlerioides Saxifrage, Narrowleaf Saxifrage, and Eastern Alpine Saxifrage.
Uses
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén is often used in traditional medicine as a remedy for respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and coughs. The plant contains various compounds such as flavonoids and triterpenes that possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The roots and leaves of the plant are used in the preparation of herbal teas, tinctures, and extracts.
General Appearance
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén is a perennial herb that grows up to 5-20cm in height. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that grow in a basal rosette pattern. The leaves are typically 1-3cm long and 2-4mm wide. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that grow in panicles or clusters. The flowers are usually 6mm in diameter and have 5-7 petals. The plant prefers to grow in rocky, alpine habitats at high elevations of up to 4000m.
Light Requirements
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides requires a moderate to high amount of light for optimal growth. It is adapted to grow in regions receiving direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. Inadequate light can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a cool to temperate climate. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow in both hot and cold regions. However, it grows best in regions with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 °C during the growing season. Extreme temperature fluctuations should be avoided, as they can lead to physiological stress and damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides grows best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including loam, sandy loam, and rocky soils. Adequate soil moisture is essential for optimal growth, but waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation methods:
The Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén requires well-drained soil with a neutral pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It is an alpine plant and can be grown in containers, rock gardens, and on slopes. The plant prefers a cool and shady location in the summer, and some sun exposure in the winter. It can tolerate harsh temperatures between -50 °F to 90 °F.
Watering needs:
The Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén prefers moderate watering in the growing season, and minimal watering during the winter. The soil must dry out between the watering intervals, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilization:
The Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén does not require frequent fertilization, as it can lead to excessive growth and poor flowering. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once every year in the early spring, at the base of the plant.
Pruning:
The Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén does not require frequent pruning. Deadhead any spent flowers to promote more flowering. Trim any damaged or diseased foliage for aesthetic purposes.
Propagation of Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén
The plant Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén can be propagated through various methods such as:
1. Seed Propagation
The seeds of Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén are small and can be sown directly onto moist seed-starting mix. It is important to keep the seeds moist and warm (between 18-22°C or 65-72°F) until they germinate. Germination usually occurs in 2-4 weeks.
2. Division
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén can also be propagated through division. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring before new growth appears. The clumps can be carefully dug up and separated into smaller sections, making sure that each section has roots and leaves.
3. Cuttings
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides (D. Don) Hultén can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is usually done in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem that is about 5-10 cm long with a few leaves and plant the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and warm until roots start to develop, which usually takes about 4-6 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides
Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides, commonly known as the Cherleria Saxifrage, is a small alpine plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may still be susceptible to a few problems.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides is powdery mildew. This fungal disease manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, try removing the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Additionally, avoid watering your plants from above, as the moisture promotes the growth of the fungus. Instead, water them at their base. If necessary, use fungicides that are labeled for use on Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides plants.
Anthrachnose is another fungal disease that can cause brown or black spots on the plant's leaves and stem. To manage anthracnose, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected plant parts. Additionally, maintain good air circulation around the plants and keep the area around them clean and free of debris.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides is the aphid. These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant sap and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, you can remove them from the plants by hand or by using a strong stream of water to wash them away. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control their population.
Spider mites are another pest that can infest Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides. They are tiny insects that feed on plant sap, causing leaves to turn yellow or brown and become speckled with small dots. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plants by placing them on a tray of wet pebbles or misting them regularly. Additionally, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control their population.
Finally, slugs and snails can also be a problem for Saxifraga bronchialis L. ssp. cherlerioides, especially if grown in a damp environment. These pests feed on the plant's foliage, leaving holes and damage. To manage slugs and snails, remove any hiding places, such as old leaves or mulch, and barriers around plants using copper tape or diatomaceous earth. Additionally, baits and traps can be used to control their population.
