California Saxifrage
Micranthes californica
Care
0–1ft tall
Friendly
Prized
High elevation meadows, springs, and wet areas of the Sierra Nevada from Kern County to Modoc County, 6000-11000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your California Saxifrage in deep shade, where it will thrive in the moist conditions it prefers. This native perennial grows naturally in moist habitats from the coast to the mountains, so choose a spot that stays consistently moist rather than drying out between waterings. Space plants about 6-12 inches apart to allow the low-growing rosettes (which reach only 6-14 inches tall) room to spread.
After Planting
Water regularly during the growing season to maintain the moist soil this plant needs to thrive. Since California Saxifrage is a perennial, expect it to return year after year once established, though specific dormancy patterns and pruning needs are best learned by observing your plant's natural growth cycle. The most common mistake is planting it in too sunny or dry a spot - this is a shade plant that dislikes drought, so resist the urge to give it more sun or reduce water.
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Wildlife Supported
Insects
Spring forager for small delicate flowers
Early season native pollinator; California endemic
Larvae feed on saxifrage tissues in spring
Early season pollen feeder during plant flowering
Parasitic fungal-associated insect; year-round presence on host
Birds
Spring breeding season nectar source in mountain habitats