Saxifraga umbellulata var. umbellulata

Saxifraga umbellulata var. umbellulata, commonly known as the umbellate saxifrage, is a delicate perennial herb found in rocky, alpine habitats. Renowned for its unique umbrella-like flower clusters, this resilient plant possesses subtle medicinal properties, historically valued in traditional practices for its potential restorative effects within specialized herbal applications.

  • Scientific name: Saxifraga umbellulata var. umbellulata
  • Family: Saxifragaceae
  • Native range: Asia-Temperate

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. It is classified within the order Saxifragales and the family Saxifragaceae. Specifically, it is identified by the genus Saxifraga, under the variety umbellulata.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Saxifragales WCVP
Family Saxifragaceae WCVP
Genus Saxifraga WCVP

Common Names

This plant, Saxifraga umbellulata var. umbellulata, is known by various regional names across different languages. In English, it is commonly referred to as the umbrella saxifrage, while in French, it is called saxifrage à ombelles. In Spanish, it is known as saxifraga umbelulada, and in Italian, it is called saxifraga umbellulata.
Language Common Name Source

Distribution

This plant exhibits a specific geographical distribution concentrated within the high-altitude regions of Asia. In China, its presence is documented within the mountainous terrain of Tibet. Moving toward the Indian Subcontinent, the species can be found throughout the East Himalaya range. Furthermore, it is also distributed across the diverse landscapes of Nepal. These specific locations highlight the plant's preference for the unique ecological niches found in these Himalayan territories.

Region Area Source
China Tibet WCVP
Indian Subcontinent East Himalaya WCVP
Indian Subcontinent Nepal WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Saxifraga umbellulata var. umbellulata, exhibits a specialized morphology adapted to its rocky habitats. The plant typically features a low-growing structure where the leaves are arranged in basal rosettes, often appearing fleshy or succulent to aid in moisture retention. From this central cluster, slender stalks emerge to support the inflorescence, which are technically elongated peduncles that elevate the flowers. While the plant may lack prominent upright stems due to its prostrate or cushion-like growth habit, it is anchored firmly into crevices by a system of roots that scavenge for nutrients in minimal soil. Following successful pollination, the plant produces small fruits, specifically capsules, which contain the seeds necessary for the next generation.
Total parts
6
Scientific sources
6
Plant Part Sources Confidence
stems 1 ★☆☆☆☆
stalks 1 ★☆☆☆☆
roots 1 ★☆☆☆☆
leaves 1 ★☆☆☆☆
fruits 1 ★☆☆☆☆
flowers 1 ★☆☆☆☆