Burnet saxifrage
Pimpinella saxifraga
Burnet saxifrage is a perennial herbaceous plant that reaches heights of 20 to 60 centimeters. It is characterized by its polymorphic leaves, with basal leaves being simply pinnate while stem leaves show finer division. The plant flowers from June to October with white, or rarely reddish, compound umbels. It is widely distributed across Europe and Western Asia and is considered a characteristic species of calcareous, nutrient-poor grasslands.
Details
Habitat function
Serves as a host plant for the caterpillars of the Old World swallowtail (Papilio machaon).
Food source for
Hoverflies, beetles, wild bees, and butterfly larvae.
Human use
The root is used medicinally for catarrhs of the upper respiratory tract; young leaves are used as a culinary herb.
Ecology
Ecological role
Important nectar source for insects and host plant for specialized caterpillar species.
Ecosystem service
Pollinator support and erosion control in dry grasslands.
Threats
Agricultural intensification, eutrophication, and scrub encroachment on nutrient-poor grasslands.
Scientific profile
Profile
Reproduction
Generative via seeds; the plant is perennial and regenerates from the rhizome/rootstock.
Protection & threats
Main threats
Eutrophication via nitrogen deposition, abandonment of land use (scrub encroachment), conversion of nutrient-poor grasslands into arable land or intensive grassland.