Saxifragaceae (Saxifrage Family)
Prairie Stars and Sugar Scoops, Jack O' the Rocks and Piggy-back Plants; Saxifragaceae is a distinctive and somewhat eccentric family of plants. The tall stems of unusual flowers sprouting from an often even odder basal leaf cluster lead to local recognition and unusual names. Their tendency to grow in rocky places with little surrounding vegetation makes them even more noticeable. This is not a discrete family. One guide's description of Peltiphyllum peltatum (Umbrella Plant) that grows in the mountains bears quoting:
"The leaf blade is an immense umbrella (1 - 2 feet wide) on a stout succulent petiole arising from a large fleshy rhizome that crawls over wet rocks."
I'm certainly going to be careful where I put the tent next time I'm in the Sierras.
Saxifragaceae are popular in native gardens, surviving well in rocky areas, although some prefer shade and moist surroundings. Coralbells (Huechera sanguinea), a native of New Mexico and Alum Root (Heuchera micrantha) do well in local gardens, as do Sugarscoop (Tiarella trifoliata) and Fringe Cups (Tellima grandiflora).
As mentioned, the leaves are usually in a basal cluster, or at least limited to the lower portions of the plant. The 5 - lobed calyx of the flowers forms a cup, with 5 petals of varying size attached. Some have 5 stamens, others have 10. Most are perennials that die back each autumn.
| Heuchera micrantha (Alum Root) |
Lithophragma affine (Woodland Star) |
Tellima grandiflora Fringe Cups |
