The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: fringecups

Family: Saxifragaceae (saxifrage family)

Distribution: w. North America

Habitat: Moist forests, thickets, meadows, rocky slopes, often near streams; 0-2000 m

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Herbaceous perennial

Comments: A small perennial evergreen groundcover for shady, moist sites growing 1½ - 3' tall and 12" wide. Foliage begins as a rosette, looking somewhat like a bouquet of grape leaves. The ½" flower resembles stars held on 2' tall slender stalks. Site on a north slope or north side of structure in acid soil. Does not take sun or drought well. Sites where there is slow drainage or even seasonal flooding work well. Flowers are attractive to birds and butterflies.