Purple Mountain Saxifrage Mary Queen of Scots 'Mary Queen of Scots'

One of the earliest and most celebrated heralds of spring in the alpine garden, this cultivar is a choice selection of a native British mountain species. Saxifraga oppositifolia 'Mary Queen of Scots' forms a prostrate, creeping mat of tiny, scale-like, dark green foliage that is almost entirely obscured by a profusion of relatively large, upward-facing, deep purple-crimson flowers. It is exceptionally hardy (H7), reflecting its high-altitude origins. In the UK, it performs best in a scree bed, a limestone trough, or a cool, north-facing crevice where the roots can stay moist and cool while the foliage enjoys bright light. Good drainage is essential to prevent rotting during damp winters. It is particularly valued for its ability to provide intense colour as early as February or March, often when the rest of the garden is still dormant. Regular top-dressing with fine grit helps maintain its compact habit and encourages healthy growth.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Gritty, alkaline to neutral, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Feb, Mar, Apr.