Purple Bitterroot
lewisia leeana
Also known as: ["Bitterroot","Rocky Mountain Bitterroot"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb native to western North America, known for its fleshy, succulent leaves and showy pink to purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Genus: | Lewisia |
| Botanical Name: | Lewisia leeana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun in cooler climates but benefits from partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct afternoon sun in warm climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with sand for drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in cooler conditions.
Protect from extreme heat; maintain cool conditions; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop feeding in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems with clean cuts; remove spent flowers to redirect energy to new growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth; shape the plant for aesthetic appeal.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; allow water to penetrate deeply; ensure excess drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter to mimic natural dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; can survive light frost but prolonged cold may damage roots.
Solution: Insulate roots with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
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 spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLewisia leeana is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLewisia leeana is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLewisia leeana is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Lewisia leeana be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in winter.
Q: Does Lewisia leeana require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, particularly in cooler climates.
Q: Can Lewisia leeana be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, but can be grown indoors in a bright, cool location with excellent drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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