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bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) is ideal; a north- or east-facing window works well. Tolerates some direct morning sun that can intensify the red coloring on the leaf undersides. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which scorches leaves and dulls the variegationLight
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, keeping the soil lightly moist but never waterlogged. Ease off in winter. Avoid wetting the leaves - the fine hairs trap moisture and encourage fungal problemsWater
Prefers 40-60% humidity. A pebble tray with water works well, but do not mist as the hairy leaves hold moisture and are prone to fungus. Above 64F (18C) extra humidity becomes more importantHumidity
60-75F (15-24C); appreciates a cooler rest period in winter, ideally 50-55F (10-13C). Tolerates temps to 50F but protect from frost. Hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 6-9Temperature
easyDifficulty
Saxifraga stolonifera Strawberry Geranium plant with patterned leaves

Strawberry Geranium

Saxifraga stolonifera

Easy

Despite two misleading common names, Saxifraga stolonifera is neither a begonia nor a geranium — it is a low-growing perennial with distinctively attractive round leaves: dark green with white veins above and deep red-purple below. In late spring, it sends up airy stalks to 18 inches bearing small white flowers with the unusual feature of two long lower petals and three small upper ones. It spreads by sending out long, threadlike red runners tipped with tiny plantlets, which is where the 'strawberry' comparison actually makes sense.

Saxifraga stolonifera Strawberry Geranium plant with patterned leaves
Daderot via Wikimedia Commons (CC0 / public domain)
Saxifraga stolonifera Strawberry Geranium plant with patterned leaves
Daderot via Wikimedia Commons (CC0 / public domain)
Care Guide

How to grow Strawberry Geranium

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Water when the top inch

Humidity

40-60%

Temperature

60-75F (15-24C); appreciates a cooler

Soil

Well-draining, peat-free potting mix amended

Propagation

The easiest method: pin the

Common Problems

Fungal rot if foliage stays

Did You Know

Fun Facts

The genus name Saxifraga comes from the Latin 'saxum' (rock) and 'frangere' (to break) — these plants naturally colonize rock crevices and over time can physically split the rock apart as their roots expand

Pet Safety

Pet safe

Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans - a pet-safe choice

Sources

  1. How to Grow and Care for Strawberry Begonia Houseplants - Gardener's Path (opens in new tab)Reference
  2. How to Grow and Care for Strawberry Begonia Houseplants - Gardener's Path (opens in new tab)Reference
  3. Saxifraga stolonifera (Strawberry Begonia, Strawberry Geranium) - NC State Extension (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Saxifraga stolonifera - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Saxifraga stolonifera - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
  6. The Ultimate Guide for Strawberry Begonia (Saxifraga) - UK Houseplants (opens in new tab)Reference
  7. The Ultimate Guide for Strawberry Begonia (Saxifraga) - UK Houseplants (opens in new tab)Reference
  8. Saxifraga stolonifera (Strawberry Begonia, Strawberry Geranium) - NC State Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
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