The Saxifraga genus, commonly known as rockfoil or saxifrage, includes a diverse group of low-growing plants popular in rock gardens and alpine settings. Gardeners often select these plants for their dense, mat-forming habit and attractive foliage. A persistent concern for many is the risk of browsing damage from white-tailed deer, making careful plant selection necessary. Choosing plants that deer naturally avoid is a common strategy for minimizing this type of damage.
The Level of Deer Resistance in Saxifraga
The Saxifraga genus is broadly classified as highly resistant to deer damage across most horticultural guides. This classification suggests that deer rarely damage these plants, making them a reliable choice for gardens in areas with moderate deer populations. Many commercial nurseries and extension services rate rockfoils among the plants that are seldom severely damaged.
This high resistance level is primarily a reflection of deer preference, or lack thereof, rather than absolute immunity. No plant is truly deer-proof, especially when deer are stressed or experiencing a scarcity of preferred food sources. The rating indicates that when deer have alternative options available, they will choose more palatable forage over Saxifraga. Gardeners can generally plant rockfoils with confidence.
Physical and Chemical Traits That Deter Grazing
The deterring qualities of Saxifraga are rooted in a combination of its physical structure and internal chemistry. Many species, such as the mossy rockfoils, exhibit a dense, low-to-the-ground, cushion-forming habit that makes them difficult for deer to graze effectively. The leaves of several varieties also possess a fuzzy or hairy texture, which contributes to an unappealing mouthfeel for deer.
Beyond texture, the foliage of Saxifraga contains plant secondary metabolites that discourage herbivory. While the specific compounds are not overtly toxic, they likely impart a taste that deer find bitter or unpalatable, a common feature in many deer-resistant plants. Deer detect these compounds, prompting them to select other forage. The combination of dense growth, unappealing texture, and off-putting taste makes Saxifraga a poor return on the animal’s foraging effort.
Situational Factors and Supplemental Deterrents
Even highly resistant plants like Saxifraga can be browsed under specific environmental conditions. New transplants that are stressed, or plants suffering during periods of severe drought or heavy snow cover, may be sampled by deer when preferred food is unavailable. High local deer density also increases browsing pressure, as more animals compete for limited resources.
Gardeners can employ several supplemental deterrents to further protect their rockfoils, particularly in high-pressure areas. Applying commercial deer repellents is one option, using products that rely on strong odors or tastes, such as putrescent egg solids or capsaicin, to create a sensory barrier. Strategic planting can also help, such as placing Saxifraga near highly aromatic plants like Russian Sage or Lavender, which deer actively dislike. For maximum protection, a temporary physical barrier, like netting or wire caging around a new planting, can deter feeding until the plant is established.