Origin and Common Names
Saxifraga rufopilosa, also known as Hultén's saxifrage, is a small perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to the Arctic regions of North America, specifically Canada and Alaska. In Canada, this plant is commonly known as "Hultén's saxifrage," while in the United States, it is referred to as "red-haired saxifrage."General Appearance
Saxifraga rufopilosa typically grows to a height of 5-15 cm and has a spread of up to 30 cm. It produces a basal rosette of leaves that are greenish-blue, alpine in shape, and densely covered with short, soft hairs. The plant's stem is erect, thin, and terminates with a dense inflorescence of small, bright pink to reddish-purple flowers. Each flower is about 5 mm in diameter and has five petals that are deeply lobed. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer.Uses
Saxifraga rufopilosa is grown as an ornamental plant in alpine rock gardens and is admired for its vibrant flowers. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used by Indigenous people in Canada for centuries to treat various ailments. The roots, leaves, and stems of the plant are used to prepare a tea that is said to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The tea is used to treat sore throats, colds, and flu-like symptoms. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific research on the plant's medicinal properties, and it is not recommended to use it without consulting a healthcare professional.Light:
Saxifraga rufopilosa typically grows in areas that receive partial to full sunlight. As the plant is native to alpine and subalpine regions, it is exposed to direct sun and thrives in bright light. However, it can also survive in areas with lower light levels but may not flower as profusely.
Temperature:
The plant is known to withstand cold temperatures and is hardy to USDA zones 2-7. Saxifraga rufopilosa grows best in cool climates with an average temperature range of 45-60? (7-16?). It can tolerate occasional warm temperatures but is not suitable for regions with prolonged periods of heat.
Soil:
The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 6.0, which is typical of alpine regions. It requires well-draining soil that does not retain moisture, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot. A sandy loam or a gravelly soil mix is suitable for Saxifraga rufopilosa; it does not require a substantial amount of nutrients but benefits from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.
Cultivation and Care of Saxifraga rufopilosa
Saxifraga rufopilosa, commonly known as hairy-leaved saxifrage, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is most suited to cool, moist environments. Here are some cultivation and care tips that will help you grow and maintain a healthy plant:
Planting
Plant Saxifraga rufopilosa in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler regions. The best time to plant is in spring or early fall, but you can plant at any time of the year, provided you water and mulch well.
Watering
Saxifraga rufopilosa requires frequent watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water daily to prevent the plant from drying out. In winter, reduce watering to once every 7-10 days to allow the plant to rest and avoid water-logging. Keep water off the foliage to prevent rotting.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in spring before new growth appears. Alternatively, you can fertilize every four to six weeks with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning
Prune Saxifraga rufopilosa regularly to promote bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming lanky and leggy. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves throughout the year to maintain the plant's appearance. Cut back the entire plant in fall after the first frost to encourage new growth in spring.
By following these simple cultivation and care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Saxifraga rufopilosa in your garden or indoor space for years to come.
Propagation of Saxifraga rufopilosa
Saxifraga rufopilosa can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation involves collecting the seeds of the plant and sowing them in a favorable environment. The ideal time for a seed collection is in late summer when the seeds are fully ripe. The seeds should be sown immediately as they have a short shelf life.
For germination, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix under full sun to partial shade. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and the germination should take place within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings are established, they should be transplanted to their desired location.
Asexual propagation
Asexual propagation of Saxifraga rufopilosa can be done through division and cuttings.
Division: To propagate Saxifraga rufopilosa through division, lift the plant from the soil and carefully separate the clumps into smaller sections. Each section should have roots attached to it. Transplant the sections into their desired location, making sure to keep the soil moist while the plants establish themselves.
Cuttings: Propagation through cuttings is done in early summer when the plant is in active growth. Take a cutting that has at least two to three leaves and remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and the cuttings should root within four to six weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Saxifraga Rufopilosa (Hultén) Porsild
Saxifraga rufopilosa is a hardy perennial plant that is native to arctic regions of North America. Although the plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, it is not entirely immune to them. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Saxifraga rufopilosa and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Grey Mold (Botrytis cinerea): Grey mold is a fungal disease that commonly affects Saxifraga rufopilosa. The disease is characterized by greyish-brown mold on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant, remove any infected plant debris, and avoid overhead watering.
Leaf Spot (Alternaria saxifragae): Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected plant debris, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot (Pythium spp.): Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect Saxifraga rufopilosa. The disease is characterized by wilting and yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Common Pests
Aphids (Aphidoidea): Aphids are common pests that can affect Saxifraga rufopilosa. The pests are characterized by small green or black insects on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this pest, it is important to remove the pests by hand or apply an insecticide.
Snails and Slugs (Gastropoda): Snails and slugs are common pests that can affect Saxifraga rufopilosa. The pests are characterized by slime trails and chewed leaves. To manage this pest, it is important to remove the pests by hand or apply a pesticide.
Spider Mites (Tetranychus spp.): Spider mites are common pests that can affect Saxifraga rufopilosa. The pests are characterized by fine webbing on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this pest, it is important to increase the humidity around the plant, spray the plant with water to remove the pests, or apply an acaricide if necessary.
