Saxifraga sancta

In places with suitable conditions, a significant number of individuals can be recorded. Evergreen perennial chasmophyte, forming dense, spreading capillary forms.

In places with suitable conditions, a significant number of individuals can be recorded. Evergreen perennial chasmophyte, forming dense, spreading capillary forms. Its leaves form dense rosettes, and are small, oblong lanceolate, pointed, with sparse and white spots (from the calcium carbonate they secrete), mainly at the top or even lower than it. On the contrary, the edges of the lower part of the leaf have lashes. The flowering stem is up to 3-5 cm high, with glandular hairs and 3-7 yellow flowers on the top. After flowering, the stem, along with the fruits and leaves, acquires an orange-red color. It flowers from May to June. In order to withstand the stresses of the conditions prevailing in its environment, this plant has several endurance mechanisms. The most impressive of all is the low and compact form, which provides the plant with the opportunity to take advantage of the chronic problem of lack of water and more. By placing the leaves like a mantle, it holds inside the water vapors coming from the ground and from itself. This form also mitigates the drying effect of the strong wind, which often occurs in these places. It also works like a heat trap and nutrient trap. One can easily see this, as lifting a rosette will reveal the depth of the dry leaves that are trapped at the bottom, acting as future “food stores”.

Although it occurs at high altitudes and therefore the area in where it is found is relatively limited, the species does not appear to be threatened by any factors. Construction of roads in the sub-alpine zone or other projects that would reduce the rocky places (e.g., wind turbines) could reduce the size of its population.

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It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.