Saxifraga stolonifera Variegata - Creeping saxifrage

The Saxifraga stolonifera 'Variegata', commonly known as spider saxifrage or Old Man's Beard, is a small plant with delicately variegated foliage, featuring a creeping habit when planted in the ground or a trailing habit when grown in hanging baskets. Its rounded, dentate, velvety leaves highlighted by silver veins and creamy-white borders add a touch of natural elegance to your décor. It fits perfectly in a boho-chic interior or a winter garden. To ensure its vitality, place it in a bright spot and keep the substrate slightly moist, avoiding overwatering.

The Saxifraga stolonifera 'Variegata' belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. Native to East Asia, particularly China and Japan, the Saxifraga stolonifera thrives naturally in forests, shrublands, and prairies, often on rocks at altitudes between 400 and 4,500 metres. In its natural habitat, it flourishes in shady, humid environments, preferring well-drained soil rich in organic matter. This herbaceous perennial spreads via stolons capable of producing seedlings, much like strawberry plants. At maturity, its foliage reaches a height of 10 to 20 cm with a spread of up to 50 cm or more. Its leaves, arranged in basal rosettes, are rounded, deep green with silver veins and creamy-white edges, and have a velvety texture. They persist through winter. Its flowering, which occurs between May and August, reveals delicate zygomorphic white flowers, with two longer petals.
When grown indoors, this plant prefers bright indirect light or partial shade, avoiding direct sunlight which may scorch its delicate foliage. Moderate to high ambient humidity is recommended, along with an ideal temperature between 5 and 20°C. The Saxifraga stolonifera can also be grown outdoors as a shade ground cover as it tolerates minimum temperatures down to -20°C, making it hardy in many regions.

The Saxifraga stolonifera 'Variegata' will bring plenty of charm to your home. Perfect for a conservatory or a bright room, it’s sure to catch the eye! Display it in a hanging basket or place it on a high shelf. Pair it with plants that have similar needs, such as the Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum' with its long white-variegated leaves.