Saxifragaceae

Saxifragaceae, the saxifrage family, is a group of flowering plants within the order Saxifragales. The family comprises several genera and a few hundred species, distributed mainly in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, with many members adapted to rocky, alpine, or woodland habitats. Members are predominantly herbaceous perennials, although some species in related genera may have more enduring forms.

Plants in this family are typically herbaceous, often with basal or short-stemmed leaves that may be lobed or dissected. Inflorescences are usually terminal or axillary and bear small, five‑merous flowers. Flowers commonly have five petals and five sepals, and fruit is typically a capsule or, less commonly, a follicle. Pollination is primarily insect-mediated, and many species respond well to moisture-retentive soils and cool climates.

Systematics and genera in Saxifragaceae have been reorganized by modern classifications, particularly under the APG system. The best‑known genus is Saxifraga, which includes many alpine and rock-dwelling species. Other genera commonly placed in the family, and valued for ornamental use, include Heuchera and Tiarella, known for distinctive foliage and floral displays; Mitella and Tellima are also treated as part of the family in various classifications. Taxonomic boundaries vary among treatments, with some species moved between Saxifraga and related genera such as Micranthes.

Ecology and horticulture: In the wild, saxifrages occupy rocky crevices, scree, damp woodlands, and alpine meadows. Several species are cultivated as ornamentals for foliage and flowers; Heuchera and Tiarella are popular in shade gardens, while Saxifraga species are favored in rock gardens and alpine displays. The name Saxifraga means “stone-breaker,” a reference to their rocky habitats.