Overview
Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén is a species of flowering plant in the saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae). It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including rocky slopes, talus, and subalpine meadows.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as sticky saxifrage, rosette saxifrage, and western saxifrage.
Appearance
The Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis is a perennial herbaceous plant. It grows up to 25 cm in height and forms a basal rosette of leaves that are green and shiny on the upper surface and covered with sticky glandular hairs on the undersides. The smooth and reddish stems bear small white flowers with five petals that bloom in the summer months.
Uses
The plant has been used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes for treating various ailments, including coughs, fevers, and venereal diseases. Its leaves have been used as a poultice for treating skin irritations and wounds. Additionally, the sticky substance on the undersides of the leaves has been used as a natural adhesive.
Growth Conditions of Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. Ssp. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén
Light: Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. It thrives in well-lit locations but can also tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: This plant is adapted to grow in cool environments, and it prefers temperatures between 40 to 60°F (4 to 16°C). It can tolerate some frost and snow cover during the winter months but can suffer damage if exposed to temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Soil: Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. It can grow in rocky or gravelly soils as well.
Water: This plant requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not overly wet. It can tolerate some periods of drought but will perform best if it receives consistent moisture.
Fertilizer: Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén does not require a lot of fertilizer but may benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring to promote growth and flowering.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated through seed or division. Seeds should be sown in the fall, while division should be done in the spring or fall. The new plants should be planted in a similar location to the parent plant, with appropriate soil and light conditions.
Cultivation of Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. ssp. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén
Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. ssp. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén prefers growing in a cool and shady environment. It can tolerate full sun, but the plant needs moisture to survive. It grows best in well-draining and moist soils with an acidic pH. The plant is easy to grow and does not require much attention.
Watering Needs
Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. ssp. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén requires consistent watering, and the soil should never dry out. To ensure the plant has enough moisture, it is best to use rainwater or distilled water since the tap water's pH is relatively high. The frequency of watering should be adjusted based on the temperature and humidity levels.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization, but it benefits from organic matter. It is best to apply a slow-release fertilizer that has low nitrogen content since Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. ssp. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén prefers low-nutrient soils. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, which is typically in the spring. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Pruning
Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. ssp. Occidentalis (S. Wats.) Hultén does not require pruning since it grows slowly and maintains its shape. However, it is essential to remove damaged or dead leaves to prevent the plant from developing diseases. In case the leaves turn yellow or brown, it might be due to overwatering. In such cases, it is best to withhold watering until the soil dries out.
Propagation of Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis
Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods:
Sexual Propagation
The plant can be reproduced through seeds, which are usually produced in the late spring or early summer. The seeds can be collected from matured flower stalks when they start to turn brown and dry. The seeds must be sown immediately in a well-drained soil mix to prevent moisture from causing the seeds to rot. The pots should be kept moist and placed in a cool location with indirect light until they germinate.
Asexual Propagation
S. reflexa can be propagated through rhizome division, which is a reliable and easy method. The rhizomes can be dug up from a matured plant and then divided into sections. Each section should have at least one healthy bud, and it should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture at the same depth it was previously growing. The soil should be kept moist, and it should be placed in a shady location until new growth appears. This method produces an exact clone of the parent plant.
Leaf cuttings are another asexual method of propagation but are less reliable. The leaf cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer, mature leaves with their petioles attached should be cut into 2 to 3 inches long pieces, and they should be buried halfway into a well-drained soil mixture. The containers should be covered with plastic bags to retain moisture, and they should be kept in a shady, cool location. The cuttings may take a few months to develop into new plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Saxifraga Reflexa Hook. ssp. Occidentalis
Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis is a plant species that thrives in alpine and subalpine habitats. It is relatively disease-resistant and unattractive to pests. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to some diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis and their management.
Diseases
1. Leaf spot diseases – These are caused by fungal pathogens that infect the leaves, causing circular or irregular spots with a different color than the surrounding tissue. To manage leaf spots, remove the affected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation. Use a fungicide if the disease is severe.
2. Powdery mildew – This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To control powdery mildew, prune the infected parts, maintain good air circulation, and avoid watering the foliage. Use a fungicide if necessary.
3. Root rot – This is a fungal disease caused by overwatering or poorly drained soils. To prevent root rot, ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
1. Aphids – These tiny insects feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control aphids, prune the affected parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider mites – These arachnids are a common pest in dry, hot environments. They suck plant sap, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water or use insecticidal soap.
3. Slugs and snails – These pests feed on plant leaves, leaving large holes. To control slugs and snails, handpick them and use slug baits.
Conclusion
Saxifraga reflexa Hook. ssp. occidentalis is a robust plant species that requires minimal disease and pest management. Practicing good cultural practices, such as proper watering, pruning, and maintenance of good air circulation, can help prevent most diseases and pests. However, if the plant develops any disease or pest infestation, use the management techniques discussed above to safeguard it.
