Spiked Saxifrage
Saxifraga spicatafam. Saxifragaceae
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Pl. A090 — Saxifraga spicata
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IOverview
Overview
Spiked Saxifrage (Saxifraga spicata) is a perennial plant belonging to the Saxifragaceae family and can be found in the wild in Alaska and Yukon. Known for its edible leaves, this plant thrives in moist, wet environments with light to partial sun exposure. Its adaptability to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—makes it a resilient choice for gardeners and naturalists alike. One distinctive feature of Spiked Saxifrage is its spiky appearance, which gives the plant its common name.
Quick answers
What is Spiked Saxifrage?
Spiked Saxifrage (Saxifraga spicata) is a perennial plant belonging to the Saxifragaceae family and can be found in the wild in Alaska and Yukon. Known for its edible leaves, this plant thrives in moist, wet environments with light to partial sun exposure.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Spiked Saxifrage thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist or wet conditions. It grows well in light, medium, or heavy soil types. As a perennial, it requires consistent moisture and can tolerate both sandy and clay soils. For propagation, gardeners can use division or seed sowing. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Alaska and Yukon. Its edible leaves make it a valuable addition to the garden for both ornamental and culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
For first-time growers
How to grow Spiked Saxifrage for the first time
8steps
Start with Spiked Saxifrage by ensuring it gets enough moisture and sunlight, making it a great beginner plant.
- 1
What you'll need
A small container or garden bed, good quality potting soil, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Spiked Saxifrage in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist and place the plant in a partially shaded area to acclimate. Water regularly, especially if it's dry.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the base for moisture retention.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage new growth. You can also harvest leaves as needed for culinary use.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and not providing enough drainage are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Spiked Saxifrage are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their slightly bitter taste. The plant thrives in moist, wet conditions and partial sun to full sun exposure.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Yukon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Saxifragaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Saxifragaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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