Origin
Saxifraga occidentalis var. wallowensis, commonly known as western saxifrage, is a perennial plant species of the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to northwestern parts of North America, including the Pacific Northwest, specifically in the Wallowa Mountains in northeastern Oregon.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as western saxifrage, Wallowa saxifrage, or Wallowa saxifrage.
Uses
Western saxifrage has several uses, including medicinal and ornamental purposes. The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat stomach and respiratory ailments. It is also used as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful pink and white flowers that bloom from May to August.
General Appearance
Saxifraga occidentalis var. wallowensis grows up to 10-20 centimeters tall and 25 centimeters wide. It has a basal rosette of leaves, with the leaves being 8-25 millimeters long, lanceolate, and often toothed. The pink and white flowers grow on long, thin stems and have five petals. The plant blooms from May to August and prefers moist, rocky soils in alpine or subalpine habitats.
Light Requirements:
Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck typically grows in high-altitude regions receiving ample sunlight. This plant requires full exposure to direct sunlight for optimal growth. Therefore, it is advisable to place it in an area with more than six hours of sunlight per day. It is also important to protect it from strong winds and extreme temperatures, as these conditions could damage the leaves and cause stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck grows best in cooler temperatures that range from 0°C to 15°C. It needs the soil to remain moist without waterlogging and should avoid extreme temperatures and frost. It is important to note that this plant is adapted to high altitudes, so it's better to keep them in a cooler environment.
Soil Requirements:
Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck prefers moist soils that are well-drained and acidic. It thrives in soils rich in organic matter and nutrients, so it is advisable to add compost or other organic matter to the soil before planting. The plant is comfortable in soils that offer enough space to accommodate its extensive root system. It is important to note that the soil should not be waterlogged since it could lead to root rot and eventually death of the plant.
Cultivation
Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck is a hardy plant that can grow in challenging conditions. The plant thrives in loamy or rocky soils with adequate drainage. It can grow in full sun or partial shade, making it an adaptable plant to various growing conditions. When planting, ensure you choose a location with adequate air circulation to prevent the development of diseases or pests.
Watering Needs
The plant has moderate water needs and requires regular watering. It can withstand periods of drought, but the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. Ensure that you water the plant thoroughly and avoid splashing the leaves with water, as this can lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck thrives in nutrient-poor soils and requires minimal fertilization. However, if you notice stunted growth or pale leaves, you may want to add some fertilizer to the soil. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
The plant doesn't necessarily need pruning, but you can trim back any dead or damaged foliage to improve its appearance. Additionally, pruning can help stimulate new growth, and you can pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth. Ensure you use sharp, clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant or spreading diseases.
Propagation of Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck
Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck can be propagated through different methods including division, stem cuttings, and seed propagation.
Division
Division is an easy and efficient propagation method for Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck. It is best to divide the plant in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active growth. The plant's roots can be easily separated, and each division should have at least one stem and root system. Plant the divisions in moist, well-draining soil and keep them in a partially shaded area until new growth appears.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective way to propagate Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck. Take stem cuttings from a healthy, mature plant during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut the stems just below a node with a sharp, sterilized blade. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem, leaving one or two leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in moist, well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a partially shaded area until new growth appears.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a good option for Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck. Collect the seeds from the plant when they have ripened in the late summer or early fall. Sow the seeds in a seed-starting mix that has been moistened and place it in a partially shaded area. Cover the container with plastic wrap to retain moisture until the seeds germinate. Once the seedlings have produced their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers or outdoors in a garden bed.
Disease Management
Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can occasionally be affected by some foliar diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
To manage powdery mildew, affected leaves should be removed immediately and the plant should be kept well-ventilated and free from any moisture. Additionally, applying a fungicide to both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves can help control the spread of the disease.
For leaf spot management, affected leaves should also be removed and destroyed. Avoid wetting the leaves during watering, as this can create an environment that favors the spread of leaf spot. Applying a copper-based fungicide can also be helpful in reducing the severity of the disease.
Pest Management
Common pests that may affect Saxifraga occidentalis S. Wats. var. wallowensis M.E. Peck include spider mites and aphids.
Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with water, which can help to dislodge and remove the pests. Alternatively, application of a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can also help in controlling spider mites.
Aphids can be managed by spraying the plant with water or by applying insecticidal soap. If the infestation is severe, application of neem oil or a pyrethrin-based insecticide can also be effective in controlling aphids.
