Saxifraga arendsii Compactum

Saxifrage arendsii 'Compactum' (synonym S. arendsii 'Stansfieldii') is a compact and highly floriferous variety of mossy saxifrage. From early spring, it is covered with charming small light pink flowers carried by short stems. They bloom on dense and very low vegetation reminiscent of moss, which is evergreen in winter. It is a small perennial that works wonders in slightly moist rockeries, along pathways or in a pot. It should be placed in non-burning sun or partial shade, in light, well-drained soil that is not too dry.

As its name suggests, Saxifraga arendsii belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. 'Compactum' is a compact selection derived from this plant. Its evergreen foliage is composed of rosettes of bright green, toothed leaves, which is where the common name of 'mossy saxifrage' arises. Each rosette measures 2 to 4cm (1 to 2in) in diameter. The plant forms a small cushion measuring 5cm (2in) in height, which slowly spreads by producing lateral rosettes, over 30 to 40cm (12 to 16in) wide. Between late March and early May, this little dome is covered in 6-petalled flowers, 1cm (0.4in) in diameter, carried 3cm (1in) above the foliage. The abundant flowers last for a few weeks.

A fan of partly shaded and rather calcareous rockeries, 'Compactum' requires a humus-rich substrate such as leaf compost that remains slightly moist but not waterlogged. This small alpine perennial can creep into crevices or gaps in paving stones. It will not be comfortable in very dry soils or under scorching sun. When planted en masse, it can line the edge of a gravel path. It can also be grown in a pot, respecting the same conditions as in open ground: light, slightly moist and well-draining substrate. It can be easily combined with other perennials that require the same conditions, such as some ferns (Phyllitis scolopendrium, Cheilanthes lanosa) or with Alchemilla erythropoda, and of course with other varieties of mossy saxifrages such as 'Pixie' or 'Peter Pan'.