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Saxifraga japonica

Saxifraga japonica
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Saxifraga japonica (Saxifraga japonica) — botanical photograph
Pl. 2503 — Saxifraga japonica
Saxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonicaSaxifraga japonica
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Overview

Saxifraga japonica, commonly known as Japanese saxifrage, is a perennial plant native to Japan and has been introduced to various countries including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Iran, and Italy. This hardy plant thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light or partial sun exposure. It grows up to 0.3 meters tall and can be found in diverse soil types, ranging from sandy to clay. The leaves of Saxifraga japonica are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor or steamed as a vegetable, making it a versatile addition to culinary applications. This plant is also appreciated for its ornamental value in gardens, with white flowers adding a touch of elegance. Native to Japan, Saxifraga japonica has adapted well to various environments across its native range and can be found growing in moist habitats. Its ability to thrive in diverse soil types and light conditions makes it a versatile addition to both wild and cultivated landscapes. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, the plant's edible leaves offer a mild and pleasant taste that enhances salads and other dishes.

Quick answers

What is Saxifraga japonica?

Saxifraga japonica, commonly known as Japanese saxifrage, is a perennial plant native to Japan and has been introduced to various countries including Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, France, Greece, Iran, and Italy. This hardy plant thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light or partial sun exposure.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Saxifraga japonica thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light or partial shade. It grows well in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. As a perennial, it can reach up to 0.3 meters in height. For cultivation, ensure the soil is consistently moist; partial sun to full sun exposure works best depending on local climate conditions. Propagate through division or from cuttings. Harvest its edible leaves for culinary use. Hardy in temperate regions, this plant is native to Japan and several other countries in Europe and Asia.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Saxifraga japonica for the first time

7steps

Start with Saxifraga japonica as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A Saxifraga japonica plant or seeds, small pots if starting from seed, and gardening tools like a trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    For seeds, sow them lightly covered in moist soil. For transplants, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and place carefully.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first week.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide partial sun or full shade, depending on your climate. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems to maintain a neat appearance. Leaves can be harvested as needed for culinary use.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Saxifraga japonica are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor or steamed as a vegetable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

15 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 15 native
Europe10 regions
native (10)AlbaniaAustriaBulgariaFranceGreeceItalyPolandRussiaSpainSwitzerland
Asia3 regions
native (3)IranJapanTurkey
Broader regions
native:Transcaucasus, Yugoslavia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Saxifraga japonica (Saxifraga japonica) — botanical photograph
Saxifraga japonica (Saxifraga japonica)
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Explore further

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