King of Saxifrages

Deservedly called the 'King of Saxifrages', Saxifraga longifolia is a spectacular monocarpic species from the Pyrenees. It forms a single, magnificent, symmetrical rosette of long, narrow, silver-edged leaves that can reach up to 20cm or more in diameter. The silvery effect is caused by lime glands along the leaf margins. It can take several years for a rosette to reach maturity, but when it does, it produces a breathtaking, arching plume up to 60cm long, covered in hundreds of small, pure white flowers. After flowering and setting seed, the main plant dies, but it often leaves behind a legacy of seedlings if the conditions are right. In the UK, it is best grown in a horizontal or vertical crevice in a limestone wall or a large trough, which mimics its natural habitat and ensures water drains away from the crown. It is fully hardy (H5) and a true statement plant for any serious alpine garden. Its architectural form is stunning even when not in flower.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Sharply drained, alkaline, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.