Red Miner's Lettuce
claytonia rubra
Also known as: ["Winter Purslane","Rocky Mountain Spring Beauty"]
Overview
A low-growing annual herb native to western North America, valued for its edible leaves and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Genus: | Claytonia |
| Botanical Name: | Claytonia rubra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sunlight; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) encourage compact growth.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bright indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean scissors to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; trim spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune leggy stems; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for fresh soil and growth space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots in cold drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure adequate ventilation; water more frequently if in a hot environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicClaytonia rubra is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicClaytonia rubra is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicClaytonia rubra is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Claytonia rubra edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems are edible and can be used in salads.
Q: Does Claytonia rubra attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Q: How much sunlight does Claytonia rubra need?
A: It prefers partial shade and can tolerate full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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