Early Carnival Mossy Saxifrage

Early Carnival Mossy Saxifrage (Saxifraga x arendsii 'Early Carnival') is a low evergreen mat, about 20cm high and 30cm wide, with generous, larger flowers. The cup-shaped blooms come in a range of pinks, from almost white to deep rose, so one plant shows several shades at once. Flowering can run for up to three months in spring.

Why you'll love it

• Several pinks at once. Flowers run from almost white to deep rose on the same plant, so the display keeps changing.
• Larger blooms. The flowers are bigger than usual for a mossy saxifrage, which helps them read from across the garden.
• A long show. Plants can flower for up to three months in spring, then settle into a neat evergreen mat.
• Part shade suits it. It performs well in part shade, particularly in hot, dry spots, and it is extremely cold hardy.
• Colour without effort. It stays tiny, needs no trimming and takes happily to a pot or window box.

Where it works best

Rockeries and flowerbeds. Plant 25cm apart for a mass of colour. The mats grow together into a pink carpet through spring.

Patio pots and window boxes. Pots show the flowers at eye height. Use a free draining mix and a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.

Roof gardens and alpine beds. Its small size and cold hardiness suit exposed raised beds, green roofs and alpine style plantings.

Growing Early Carnival Mossy Saxifrage in Australia

Position and climate. Part shade is best, especially in hot, dry locations, though it will grow in full sun in cooler climates if it gets enough water. It is extremely cold hardy but dislikes hot, humid tropical climates, so it is not one for far north Queensland, although it is fine in south east Queensland and further south.

Soil. Free draining soil with some compost worked in suits it. Mulch after planting to retain moisture and keep soil temperatures even as the young plant establishes.

Water and feed. Water regularly while it establishes and through dry spells. A slow release fertiliser in spring helps keep the plant healthy.

Pruning. No regular pruning is needed. Snip off spent flowers and tidy any brown patches after the flowering season.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Early Carnival Mossy Saxifrage as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives small, so plant it out soon after delivery, mulch around it and keep it moist until the mat starts to spread.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse rockery plants
• More flowering plants
• Plants for balconies and patios
• Low growing plants for garden edges

Common questions

How long does it flower?

Flowers can last up to three months in spring. After that the plant remains as a neat mat of small evergreen leaves.

Why do the flowers vary in colour?

Early Carnival naturally produces a range of pink shades on the same plant, from almost white to deep rose, so the variation is normal.

Can I grow it in a pot?

Yes. It suits patio pots and window boxes, provided the mix drains freely and the plant is kept moist and out of the hottest afternoon sun.