Saxifraga cortusifolia Shiranami

Saxifraga 'Shiranami' is a refined small perennial of the undergrowth and shaded rocky areas. It is adorned with pretty rounded and glossy foliage. At the end of the season, it produces a generous and delicate flowering of small white, double and asymmetrical dentate flowers. Plant it in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, in the ground or a container. You can also cultivate it in the Japanese style, in bowls that can be placed near the house during flowering, from September to November.

Saxifraga cortusifolia var. fortunei, from the Saxifragaceae family, is native to Japanese forests. This small plant develops a rosette of deciduous leaves 20cm (8in) in diameter. They are rounded, lobed, dentate, and glossy, and measure from 5 to 8cm (2 to 3in) long. The flowering plant will reach approximately 20cm (8in) in height and spread. In this 'Shiranami' variety, the rounded and lobed foliage is particularly fine. Its colour is a medium green, slightly tinged with olive-green. At the end of summer, and until the first cold, pyramid-shaped panicles measuring 10cm (4in) long emerge from the tuft of leaves. They bear a multitude of globose flower buds that open into very pretty white flowers, distinctly asymmetrical, with a diameter of 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in). They are formed by short upper petals and numerous longer lower petals, fringed at the edges. The small heart of the flower is a bright yellow. Lean in a little closer to discover their delicate scent.

Saxifraga 'Shiranami' thrives in light, humus-rich, moist, and well-drained soil in semi-shade or full shade. These conditions can be found in a cool shady rockery or near a north-facing facade, in well-drained soil. It can also be planted at the base of deciduous trees or shrubs, taking care to remove dead leaves that could cover the plant in autumn. It also makes lovely borders, adorns walls, and decorates shaded areas of a patio. Dwarf hostas, Japanese ferns (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum), bellflowers, and Veronica umbrosa will be good companions for this extremely refined small perennial.

NOTE: This is a delicate plant to be reserved for experienced gardeners. Plant 'Shiranami' Saxifrage in any light, moist, slightly acidic soil, without excess limestone. This perennial does not tolerate heavy and wet soils in winter, nor limestone and dry soils in summer.