Saxifraga fortunei Wada

Saxifrage fortunei 'Wada' is distinguished by its slightly larger growth compared to other Fortune saxifrages, but especially by the beautiful colouring of its foliage. Adorned with khaki-green leaves tinged with brown on the top, beautifully edged with brown-red, this adorable perennial plant also boasts a delicate late flowering, made up of small white-cream star-shaped flowers, gathered in airy clusters. It brings charm to shaded and cool areas of the garden in autumn, at a time of year when flowering is rare in the garden. Place it near the house so you can admire it up close, or better yet, cultivate it in the Japanese style, in bowls that can be placed near the house during flowering.

Saxifraga fortunei belongs to the Saxifragaceae family. It is closely related to S. cortusifolia. This small plant forms a rosette of large leaves measuring 45cm (18in) in diameter that die down in winter. They are thick, rounded, lobed, toothed, shiny, measure about 4 to 6cm (2in) in diameter, and are carried on long reddish stems. The flowering plant will reach approximately 45cm (18in) in height with a spread of 45 to 50cm (18 to 20in). In this 'Wada' variety, the foliage colour boasts shades of khaki-green, brown, and red. From September until the first frost, 10cm (4in) long panicles emerge from the leaf clump, well above the foliage. On reddish-brown branches, lovely asymmetrical flowers, measuring 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in) in diameter, appear. They consist of 6 thread-like petals, 3 short upper petals, and 3 longer lower petals, giving the corolla a charming and delicate air. Their colour is white-cream, and the small conical flower centre is bright yellow. Lean in a little to discover their fineness and delicate fragrance.

Saxifrage 'Wada' thrives in light, humus-rich, moist, and well-drained soil in semi-shade or full shade. These conditions can be found in a shaded rockery, at the edge of a damp woodland, or near a north-facing facade in well-drained soil. It can also be planted at the base of deciduous trees or bushes, taking care to remove any dead leaves that could cover the plant in autumn. It also makes lovely borders, embellishes walls, and decorates shaded areas of a patio. Dwarf hostas, Japanese ferns (Athyrium niponicum Pictum), or Dryopteris erythrosora, foamflowers, and Veronica umbrosa will be good companions for this extremely refined perennial plant.

NOTE: Attention! This plant is quite delicate and should be reserved for experienced gardeners. Plant Saxifrage fortunei in light, moist, slightly acidic soil without excessive limestone. This perennial does not tolerate heavy and wet soils in winter, nor dry and limestone soils in summer.