Saxifrage,
n. [L.
saxifraga, from
saxifragus stone-breaking;
saxum rock +
frangere to break: cf. F.
saxifrage. See
Fracture, and cf.
Sassafras,
Saxon.].
Any plant of the genus Saxifraga, mostly perennial herbs growing in crevices of rocks in mountainous regions. [1913 Webster]
Burnet saxifrage, a European umbelliferous plant (Pimpinella Saxifraga). -- Golden saxifrage, a low half-succulent herb (Chrysosplenium oppositifolium) growing in rivulets in Europe; also, C. Americanum, common in the United States. See also under Golden. -- Meadow saxifrage, or Pepper saxifrage. See under Meadow.