Saxifraga stolonifera 'Strawberry Begonia Variegata' (WA Prohibited)

Saxifraga stolonifera 'Strawberry Begonia Variegata' is valued for its decorative foliage and trailing growth. The species is native to China, Korea, and Japan, where it grows in shaded, humid environments such as forest floors, mossy rocks, and damp cliff faces. In the wild, it spreads via slender stolons that root easily, forming mats of foliage.

This variegated form has rounded to heart-shaped leaves with scalloped edges, green centres marbled with creamy white patterns, and reddish undersides. Fine hairs cover the surface, giving the leaves a soft texture. In late spring to early summer, slender stems emerge above the foliage carrying delicate white flowers with two long lower petals and three shorter upper petals, attracting small insect pollinators.

In cultivation, it performs well in shaded borders, containers, hanging baskets, or as a groundcover in damp, sheltered sites. Its trailing habit makes it particularly suitable for positions where the foliage can cascade over the edge of a pot or wall.

Care Tips:

• Light: Partial to full shade; protect from strong midday sun, which can scorch variegated leaves.
• Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated; do not allow it to dry out completely.
• Humidity: Prefers higher humidity; mist in dry conditions or place in a sheltered, humid position.
• Media: Grow in fertile, humus-rich, well-draining soil with good moisture retention.
• Fertiliser: Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertiliser.
• Temperature: Thrives in cool to mild climates; protect from severe frost in colder regions.
• Repotting: Repot or divide every 2–3 years in spring to maintain plant vigour.
• Propagation: Remove and plant rooted stolons in suitable soil conditions.