Saxifraga stolonifera 'Strawberry Begonia Tricolour' (WA Prohibited)

Saxifraga stolonifera 'Strawberry Begonia Tricolour' is grown for its colourful foliage and trailing habit. The species is native to China, Korea, and Japan, where it occupies shaded, humid habitats such as forest floors, damp rock faces, and mossy crevices. In the wild, it spreads via slender stolons that root at their tips, forming dense mats over time.

The tricolour foliage consists of rounded to heart-shaped leaves with scalloped edges, combining green centres, creamy to pale pink variegation, and reddish undersides. Fine hairs cover the leaves, giving a soft, velvety feel. In late spring to early summer, wiry stems rise above the foliage, bearing loose sprays of white flowers with two elongated lower petals and three shorter upper petals, which attract small pollinators.

In cultivation, this form is well suited to shaded borders, hanging baskets, containers, or as a groundcover in sheltered, damp positions. Its trailing nature allows it to drape attractively over pot edges or walls.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade; protect from direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch, especially on variegated areas.
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting it dry out completely.
• Humidity: Benefits from moderate to high humidity; mist in dry weather or position in a naturally humid location.
• Media: Plant in humus-rich, fertile, well-draining soil with good moisture retention.
• Fertiliser: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength monthly during the growing season.
• Temperature: Best in cool to mild climates; protect from hard frosts in colder areas.
• Repotting: Refresh the soil and divide clumps every 2–3 years in spring to maintain health and vigour.
• Propagation: Detach and plant rooted stolons in suitable conditions for quick establishment.