Saxifraga mertensiana

Bong.

Wood Saxifrage, Woodland Saxifrage

Saxifragaceae Edible: Leaves 1,763 iNaturalist observations

iNaturalist· cc-by-nc-nd

iNaturalist· cc-by-nc

iNaturalist· cc-by-nc-nd

Summary

Saxifraga mertensiana, the wood saxifrage or Mertens' saxifrage, is a species of plant in the Saxifragaceae family. It is native to western North America.

Description

Hardy perennial saxifrage with hermaphroditic flowers. Tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils across mildly acidic to mildly alkaline pH ranges. Grows in semi-shade or full sun. Thrives in moist or wet soil.

Edible Uses

The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and are best harvested before the plant comes into flower.

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Canada, North America, USA,

Cultivation

We have almost no information for this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it is likely to succeed outdoors in most parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers an open soil surrounded by stones. Grows well in a rock garden.

Propagation

No specific information is available for this species, but sowing seed in a cold frame in spring is recommended. Surface sow or barely cover the seed, keeping the compost consistently moist. Prick out seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle and grow them on in a greenhouse or cold frame through their first winter. Plant out in late spring after the last expected frosts. Division in spring is also an option — larger divisions can go directly into their permanent positions, while smaller ones are best potted up and grown on in a lightly shaded cold frame until well established, then planted out in summer.