Family: Saxifragaceae
Author: Lapeyr.
Bibliography: Fig. Fl. Pyrénées: 26 (1801)
Year: 1801
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Saxifraga
Vegetable: False
Observations: Pyrenees to N. & E. Spain, Morocco
Description
The Pyrenean saxifrage, scientifically known as Saxifraga longifolia, is a captivating perennial plant celebrated for its unique and striking appearance. This exquisite species belongs to the Saxifragaceae family and is esteemed for its botanical significance and splendor. First documented in 1801 by the renowned botanist Lapeyr., this plant has since fascinated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
The Pyrenean saxifrage is indigenous to the rugged terrains of the Pyrenees mountains and extends its natural habitat to parts of northern and eastern Spain as well as Morocco. This impressive geographical range speaks to the plant’s adaptability and resilience in diverse climates and altitudes.
One of the most remarkable features of Saxifraga longifolia is its impressive rosette of intricately arranged leaves, which can form a striking tower-like structure. The leaves are elongated and serrated, contributing to the plant’s architectural beauty. During the blooming season, it produces an abundance of delicate white flowers that cascade in enchanting clusters, adding a touch of elegance to rocky landscapes and alpine gardens.
The Pyrenean saxifrage favors well-drained soils and is often found clinging to rocky crevices or alpine slopes, where it thrives in full sun to partial shade. Its adaptability to harsh environments makes it an ideal choice for rock gardens and landscape projects aimed at replicating natural alpine settings.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Pyrenean saxifrage plays a crucial role in its native ecosystems. It supports local wildlife, including various pollinators such as bees and butterflies, thus contributing to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.
In conclusion, the Pyrenean saxifrage (Saxifraga longifolia) is a botanical gem that combines both resilient beauty and ecological value. Its presence in the Pyrenees, Spain, and Morocco marks it as a plant of cultural and environmental significance, making it a subject of admiration and study for horticulturists and nature lovers worldwide.
Common Names
En: Pyrenean Saxifrage
Ca: Altamira, Corona de cingle, Corona de rei
Nl: Pyreneese Steenbreek
Fr: Saxifrage à feuilles longues, Saxifrage à longues feuilles
Es: Corona del rey, Corona de rey
: Pyrenean saxifrage
Synonyms
- Saxifraga longifolia var. ilerbona (Pau)
- Saxifraga longifolia var. aitanica ((Pau) Pau)
- Chondrosea longifolia ((Lapeyr.) Haw.)
- Saxifraga lingulata var. subnana (Don)
- Saxifraga lingulata var. aitanica ((Pau) Cámara)
- Saxifraga lingulata subvar. aitanica ((Pau) Mas-Guindal)
- Saxifraga catalaunica var. aitanica (Pau)
Distribution
- France (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Spain (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Jun 22, 2015 by Alain Lagrave (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 28, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Christian Deurveilher (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 21, 2018 by Antoni Urbaneja Vizcaíno (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 23, 2021 by jbou58 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 17, 2019 by Jean Jammet (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Sep 7, 2020 by Hugo Rande (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 8, 2019 by aguilera adrian (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 7, 2022 by Rafa Carmona (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 27, 2021 by Jordi Cortina-Segarra (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2017 by jeclerencia (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 24, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2014 by Joan Curià (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2014 by Joan Curià (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2014 by Joan Curià (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Alain Bigou (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jun 12, 2021 by Jose Maria Treviño Ferrer (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 19, 2018 by Antonio Rey (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 10, 2019 by Wilhelm Rogmann (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 28, 2019 by Marie (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken May 22, 2016 by Noé Positivo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Yann QUELEN (©)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7742809)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:793997-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Saxifraga longifolia Lapeyr.)