Burnet Saxifrage is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia, thriving in well-drained soils and often found in grasslands and meadows. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, it plays a role in the herbaceous layer of food forests, enhancing biodiversity and supporting pollinator populations. Its deep root system improves soil structure and prevents erosion, while its flowers attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies and bees. Historically, it has been used in traditional European medicine for its diuretic and expectorant properties. In guild design, it pairs well with other meadow plants like yarrow and wild carrot, contributing to a resilient ecosystem.
Growing Details
Burnet Saxifrage prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and wild carrot, which enhance pollinator attraction. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves in the morning when oils are most concentrated, and store them in a cool, dry place.
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Pimpinella saxifraga</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Europe, Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 90 days
Harvest:
middle
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The leaves of Burnet Saxifrage can be used fresh in salads and as a garnish, imparting a mild, cucumber-like flavor. They are best harvested in spring and early summer when the flavor is most pronounced. Caution is advised as excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Burnet Saxifrage has been used for its diuretic and expectorant properties. It is believed to aid digestion and relieve respiratory issues. The roots and leaves can be used to make herbal teas or tinctures. Always consult a healthcare professional before using it medicinally.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort.
other uses:
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Pimpinella saxifraga
common names: Burnet Saxifrage; Lesser Burnet; Pimpinelle
family: Apiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Pimpinella
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.3 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 22ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 25ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 90 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Burnet Saxifrage prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and wild carrot, which enhance pollinator attraction. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves in the morning when oils are most concentrated, and store them in a cool, dry place.
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-free, but may occasionally be affected by aphids and slugs. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids. Use copper barriers or diatomaceous earth to deter slugs. Planting garlic or chives nearby can also help repel pests.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
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