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Herbaceous PerennialAlpine Rockery

Petrorhagia saxifraga

tunic flower

A low-growing, mat-forming, spreading hardy perennial alpine with small, thin green leaves which remain evergreen in milder areas. Small white or pale pink flowers appear in late spring to early summer, lasting through until late . A great alpine for cascading over walls and steps, edging paths or green roofs

Other common names
coat flower
Synonyms
Gypsophila saxifraga
Tunica saxifraga
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink White Green
Summer Pink White Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Petrorhagia is a small genus of flowering annuals and perennials, native to Europe and Asia, with low-growing, narrow grass-like foliage and small clusters of pink, lilac or white flowers which are similar to Dianthus

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S & C Europe

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows best in poor to moderately fertile well-drained soil in full sun. Drought resistant once established

Propagation

Sow from seed in spring or autumn in pots with free-draining seed compost. Harden off in a coldframe or greenhouse and plant out when risk of frost has passed.

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Rock garden
  • Ground cover
  • Garden edging
Pruning

Cut back after flowering to encourage a second flush of flowers

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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