(Originally) the saxifrage Saxifraga hypnoides, having mosslike cushions of foliage and white flowers; (later also) any of various species and cultivars of saxifrage having a similar mat-forming habit.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in James Edward Smith (1759–1828), botanist.
Definition of mossy saxifrage in US English:
mossy saxifrage
noun
(Originally) the saxifrage Saxifraga hypnoides, having mosslike cushions of foliage and white flowers; (later also) any of various species and cultivars of saxifrage having a similar mat-forming habit.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in James Edward Smith (1759–1828), botanist.