Early Saxifrage (Saxifraga virginiensis Michx.)

Saxifragaceae (Saxifrage Family)

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

A hairy floral stalk, rising from a rosette of basal leaves, has branched clusters of fragrant white flowers.

This early spring wildflower can be planted shaded rock gardens. Many members of this genus occur and they can be found in both wet and dry habitats. Mountain Saxifrage (S. michauxii), a southern species that grows up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall, has coarse leaves, and white petals of slightly different sizes, spotted with yellow.