Tufted alpine saxifrage Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Tufted alpine saxifrage

Scientific classification
Genus:	Saxifraga
Species:	cespitosa
Synonyms
Saxifraga caespitosa (orth. var.)

The Saxifraga cespitosa, also known as the tufted alpine saxifrage or just tufted saxifrage, is a small, tough flower. It grows in cold, high places, especially in the Arctic. You can also find it in mountains further south, like the Alps, Norway, Scotland, Wales, Iceland, Siberia, western North America, and Greenland. This plant is special because it can survive in very harsh environments.

About the Tufted Saxifrage
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About the Tufted Saxifrage

The tufted saxifrage is a fascinating plant that has adapted to live in some of the world's coldest and highest places. Its name, "tufted," comes from how it grows in dense, cushion-like clumps. This helps it stay warm and protected from strong winds.

What Does it Look Like?

The tufted saxifrage grows in thick clumps, almost like a small cushion. It has very short stems. At the bottom of the plant, you'll find old, dried-up leaves.

Leaves: Its leaves are small and usually have three to five rounded parts, like tiny fingers. Both the leaves and the green parts that protect the flower bud (called the calyx) are covered in tiny, sticky hairs. These hairs are called trichomes and they can help protect the plant.
Flowers: The flowering stems are usually about 5 to 10 centimeters (2 to 4 inches) tall. Each stem has one or two pretty white flowers. The petals are twice as long as the green calyx parts.
Variations: Sometimes, you might see smaller versions of this plant. These smaller plants have shorter stems and their petals might be a yellowish-green color instead of pure white. They often have only one flower per stem.

Where Does it Grow?

This hardy plant loves rocky places. You can often find the tufted saxifrage growing on ledges or in gravelly areas. These are places where other plants might struggle to grow because of the harsh conditions.

Protecting the Plant

Because of its special habitat and unique characteristics, the tufted saxifrage is a protected species in some areas. In the United Kingdom, it became a protected plant in 1975. This means it's against the law to pick or damage it, helping to make sure this amazing flower continues to thrive for many years to come.