Saxifragaceae

Foamflower

Saxifraga granulata 140505

Astilbe rivularis - Flickr - peganum (1)

American Alumroot Heuchera americana 'Garnet' Stalk 2448px

Rodgersia podophylla 4587

Saxifraga merkii var idsuroei s2

Saxifragaceae, commonly known as the Saxifrage family, is a family of flowering plants that includes many known garden plants and wildflowers. The family is diverse, containing around 640 species distributed across approximately 33 genera. The members of this family are found worldwide, from the tropics to the arctic, but they are most abundant in the northern temperate zones. Saxifragaceae are particularly noted for their ornamental value and have been widely cultivated for their attractive flowers and foliage.

Characteristics

Plants in the Saxifragaceae family can be herbaceous perennials, biennials, or shrubs. They are characterized by their leaves, which can be either simple or compound, and are often arranged in a basal rosette. The flowers are typically small to medium in size, with five petals and five sepals, although there can be variations. They are known for their radial symmetry and are often brightly colored, ranging from white to pink, red, or yellow. The fruit is usually a capsule containing numerous small seeds.

Genera and Species

Among the most well-known genera within the Saxifragaceae family are:

• Saxifraga, which is the largest genus within the family and includes many species of rock garden plants known for their resilience and attractive blooms.
• Bergenia, known for its large, leathery leaves and clusters of pink or white flowers.
• Heuchera, popular in horticulture for its variety of foliage colors and textures, as well as its delicate flower spikes.
• Tiarella, which bears foam-like flowers and is often used as ground cover in shady gardens.

Other notable genera include Mitella, Rodgersia, and Astilbe, each contributing unique characteristics to the diversity of the family.

Habitat and Distribution

Saxifragaceae species are adaptable to a wide range of habitats, from wetlands to rocky alpine regions. They are predominantly found in the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, though some species are native to South America and the mountains of Africa and New Guinea.

Ecological Role

Members of the Saxifragaceae family play significant roles in their ecosystems. They are important for soil stabilization, especially in rocky areas where many saxifrages excel. Additionally, their flowers provide nectar and pollen for a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and birds.

Cultivation and Uses

Many Saxifragaceae are cultivated for their ornamental value. They are used in rock gardens, borders, and as ground covers. Some species have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine. The family's diverse forms and habitats make them a subject of interest for gardeners and botanists alike.

Conservation

While many Saxifragaceae species are common and widely distributed, some are rare and face threats from habitat destruction, climate change, and overcollection. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the survival of these species in their natural habitats.

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