Bitterroot
Lewisia rediviva · Montiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bitterroot: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, basal rosette
- Flowering
- April to June, pink or white flowers
- Adult size
- 10–15 cm tall, 8–12 cm wide
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Western United States (arid zones)
- Soil type
- Well-draining, poor, gravelly
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
Care
Watering
Water moderately during spring growth. In summer and winter, reduce watering drastically: the plant enters dormancy and fears excess moisture. In pots, let the substrate dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Exposure
Plant lewisia in full sun for abundant flowering. It tolerates partial shade, but flowering will be less profuse. Protect it from strong winds in enclosed or semi-open settings.
Soil and drainage
Very well-draining soil is essential: mix light potting soil, gravel, coarse sand, and pumice. Avoid any water pooling, especially in winter. In pots, use specialized substrate for succulents or cacti.
Pruning and cleaning
Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. Remove dead or dried leaves during winter dormancy. No structural pruning is needed: the plant naturally maintains its compact form.
Fertilizing
Apply diluted fertilizer, low in nitrogen and rich in potassium in spring only, during active growth. Avoid any feeding in summer and winter to prevent unnecessary growth.
Diseases and pests
Root rot is the main risk if moisture is excessive. Watch for aphids or spider mites in indoor cultivation. Ensure good air circulation and maintain perfect hygiene to prevent fungal attacks.
Did you know?
Lewisia rediviva is named after botanist and explorer Meriwether Lewis, who discovered it during the Corps of Discovery Expedition (1803–1806) in the heart of the Rockies. Native American tribes of the Nez Perce used its fleshy tuber as a precious food source, earning it the poetic nickname 'bitter root'.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.