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Lettuceleaf Saxifrage

Micranthes micranthidifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Lettuceleaf Saxifrage (Micranthes micranthidifolia)
Photo: (c) Alison Northup, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Alison Northup

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

6"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Native to

GA, KY, MD, NC and 5 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Lettuceleaf saxifrage is a small perennial forb with distinctive lettuce-like foliage that forms compact clumps in partial shade. It produces delicate white flower clusters in spring and prefers consistent moisture, making it suitable for woodland gardens or shaded borders.

In an HOA neighborhood

Lettuceleaf Saxifrage takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very uncommon plant that most HOAs would not recognize as intentional landscaping
  • Small stature and delicate appearance may look weedy or unestablished
  • Unknown leaf retention could result in messy dormant appearance

Wildlife value

This native plant supports bees and beetles during its April and May bloom period. Its early spring flowers provide nectar when few other plants are blooming.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Lettuceleaf Saxifrage fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.