Family: Saxifragaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 400 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Saxifraga
Vegetable: False
Observations: European Mts.
Description
Moss saxifrage, scientifically known as Saxifraga bryoides, is a captivating perennial plant belonging to the Saxifragaceae family. This delicate and resilient species thrives in the mountainous regions of Europe, where it proudly adorns rocky crevices and alpine meadows with its charming presence.
First described by the famed botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753 in his seminal work “Species Plantarum,” Saxifraga bryoides has captured the interest of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. It is notable for its moss-like appearance, from which it derives its common name “Moss saxifrage.” The plant forms small, dense mats of foliage, creating a verdant, cushion-like effect that enhances the beauty of the rugged terrains it inhabits.
Moss saxifrage is well-adapted to the harsh conditions of its native mountainous environments. Its leaves are small, cylindrical, and slightly succulent, allowing it to conserve water and withstand periods of dryness. These leaves often exhibit a rich green hue, contributing to the overall moss-like appearance that makes this species unique. During the blooming season, Saxifraga bryoides produces tiny, star-shaped flowers that further enhance its ornamental appeal. These flowers are typically white or pale pink and cluster in compact inflorescences, adding a delicate splash of color against the backdrop of its lush foliage.
This plant plays a crucial role in the alpine ecosystems where it is found, providing ground cover and helping to stabilize the soil, thus preventing erosion. Its ability to thrive in rocky and thin substrates makes it a pioneer species in these inhospitable areas, paving the way for other plants to establish.
In cultivation, Moss saxifrage is valued for its aesthetic qualities and its ability to bring a touch of alpine charm to rock gardens and alpine plant collections. Gardeners who wish to cultivate this species should simulate its natural habitat by providing well-drained, gritty soil and exposure to full sun to partial shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, ensuring adequate drainage is key to preventing root rot and other moisture-related issues.
Overall, Saxifraga bryoides is a remarkable example of botanical resilience and beauty. Its ability to flourish in challenging environments, coupled with its enchanting form, makes it a cherished addition to both natural landscapes and cultivated settings. Whether observed in the wild or nurtured in a garden, Moss saxifrage stands as a testament to the intricate wonders of alpine flora.
Common Names
Deu: moos-steinbrech
En: Moss Saxifrage
Bg: Мъховидна каменоломка
Ca: Trenca-rocs
Fr: Saxifrage d’Auvergne, Saxifrage fausse mousse, Saxifrage faux bryum
De: Moos-Steinbrech, Moosartiger Steinbrech
It: Sassifraga brioide
Pl: Skalnica mchowata
Ru: Камнеломка моховидная
Sk: Lomikameň machovitý
: Moss saxifrage
Synonyms
- Saxifraga aspera var. genuina (Gren.)
- Saxifraga aspera subsp. bryoides ((L.) Nyman)
- Saxifraga aspera var. bryoides ((L.) DC.)
- Ciliaria bryoides ((L.) Haw.)
Distribution
- Austria (native)
- Bulgaria (native)
- Czechoslovakia (native)
- France (native)
- Germany (native)
- Italy (native)
- Poland (native)
- Romania (native)
- Spain (native)
- Switzerland (native)
- Ukraine (native)
- Yugoslavia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Sep 14, 2020 by Ferri Angelino (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2020 by Neeltje Bollen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 6, 2021 by Fabien Anthelme (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 11, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 20, 2021 by Pietro Brignoli (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 29, 2022 by Llandrich anna (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2022 by Tristan Jaton-Maria (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 12, 2022 by Müller Thorolf (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 16, 2007 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 5, 2007 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 15, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 11, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jul 15, 2018 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken Aug 20, 2021 by Pietro Brignoli (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 9, 2012 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2011 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3755523)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:793325-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Saxifraga bryoides L.)
Specifications
Growth
Bloom months: [‘jul’, ‘aug’]