Saxifrage (Saxifraga, 'stone-breaker,' because supposed to break stones in the bladder), a genus of plants of the natural order Saxifragææ or Saxifragaceæ (q.v.). The genus is a numerous one, consisting of annual and perennial herbs, mostly tufted. The species are chiefly mountain or rock plants, and are most abundant in the northern hemisphere. Many species are cultivated in gardens for their pretty flowers and neat habit of growth, being especially valued for ornamenting rockeries. Some thirteen species are natives of Britain, the best known of which is S. umbrosa, which, under the popular names London Pride, None-so-pretty, and St Patrick's Cabbage, is a favourite in nearly every cottage garden. The predominant property of the genus is astrigency, but it has never been utilised.
(Saxifraga cespitosa).