Saxifraga stolonifera, commonly known as Strawberry Begonia or Creeping Saxifrage, is a charming houseplant known for its attractive foliage and unique spreading habit. It's important to note that it's neither a strawberry nor a begonia, but gets its name from its strawberry-like runners and begonia-like leaves. Here's a detailed guide to caring for this plant:
Description
- Appearance: Features round, heart-shaped leaves with silver veining and a red underside. It produces runners, similar to strawberry plants, with baby plants at the ends.
- Size: Grows about 6-8 inches tall and can spread out to about 12-18 inches.
Care Guide
Light Requirements:
- Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- A north or east-facing window is ideal.
Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Reduce watering in the winter months.
Temperature and Humidity:
- Thrives in average room temperatures, ideally between 15°C to 21°C (60°F to 70°F).
- High humidity is beneficial. Regular misting, a pebble tray with water, or a humidifier can help maintain humidity levels.
Soil and Fertilization:
- Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a half-strength, balanced fertilizer.
Pruning and Maintenance:
- Prune the runners if you want to keep the plant compact or let them grow for a cascading effect in hanging baskets.
- Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to maintain health and appearance.
Pest and Disease Management:
- Inspect for pests like aphids and spider mites.
- Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Repotting:
- Repot every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
- Spring is the best time for repotting.
Propagation
- Easily propagated by the runners. Simply pin the baby plants into soil while still attached to the mother plant. Once rooted, they can be cut free and grown separately.
Special Considerations
- Saxifraga stolonifera is generally non-toxic to pets and humans.
- Its spreading habit makes it a great choice for hanging baskets or as a ground cover in terrariums.
With proper care, Saxifraga stolonifera can be a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your indoor plant collection, bringing a unique charm with its patterned leaves and trailing runners.
