Saxifraga sp

Perennial of the Saxifragaceae family, belonging to the Saxifraga section (formerly Dactyloides), this cushion saxifrage could not be identified with certainty from photographs alone.

Outside of flowering, the plant forms dense and well-defined cushions, of a bright and fresh green, composed of numerous small rosettes with finely trifid to multifid leaves. A particularly striking detail is the spiral arrangement of the young leaves at the heart of each rosette, giving them a very regular, almost geometric rolled appearance. The stems are reddish, clearly visible between the rosettes, and contrast with the bright green foliage.

At the time of flowering, this cushion is covered with a considerable number of small white flowers with five rounded petals, borne by slender upright reddish stems, with a well-marked yellow-green center. The flowers then completely mask the foliage, forming an immaculate veil that follows the shape of the cushion. Depending on the photographed individuals, the habit can remain very compact and flat or take on a more ample development against a wall or rockery.

All observations point towards the group of S. rosacea, S. hypnoides or one of their many cultivars or hybrids, all very close morphologically.

In cultivation, these saxifrages appreciate a well-drained, fresh soil, in partial shade to moderate sun exposure, and generally prove robust and easy to establish in rockeries or against a wall.