Micranthes virginiensis aka Early Pseudosaxifrage

Micranthes virginiensis is a perennial wildflower in the saxifrage family, Saxifragaceae. Gardeners know it as early saxifrage or Virginia saxifrage. Its former name is Saxifraga virginiensis. Its native range spans central and eastern Canada and the United States. It grows in dry woods and fields with rocky ground. In North Carolina, it occurs in the Piedmont and western mountains. It is much less frequent on that state's coastal plain.

The plant forms a basal rosette, with leaves close to the ground. It can grow alone or form clumps in the wild. Its growth is fast, and its overall texture is coarse. The simple leaves have an oval shape and clear veins. Their broad teeth give the edges a scalloped outline. Hairs line the edges, and the leaves feel rough. The leaf undersides often have a maroon tint. Round flower stems rise above the leaves as spring begins. Dense hairs cover these sticky stems, which have no scent. At first bloom, stems stand about 0.33 feet [0.10 m] tall. They then lengthen to about 1 foot [0.30 m].

White, scented flowers appear from April through June. They form branched clusters above the low rosette of leaves. Each flower has five separate petals, rather than joined petals. Ten bright yellow stamens stand out against the white petals. The flowers give the plant its main spring display. Fruits follow and remain on the plant in summer. These capsules range from green to purple and hold many tiny seeds. Each capsule dries and splits open when it ripens.

Choose partial shade and soil that drains well. This species grows best where soil ranges from dry to moist. It also tolerates shallow, rocky soil and periods of dryness. North Carolina State Extension lists it for USDA zones 2–8. Wild sites include cliffs, rocky hillsides, stream banks, and wooded slopes. In gardens, it suits shaded rock gardens and rock walls. It also fits native gardens, slopes, and small group plantings.

This is a low-maintenance plant, with no serious problems reported. The source lists no major insect or disease concerns. Growers can raise new plants from seed. Young leaves gathered in early spring can go into salads. The evidence gives no wider assessment of toxicity or pet safety.