Bitterroot
lewisia rediviva
Also known as: ["Sourbitter","Rocky Mountain Bitterroot"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to western North America, known for its fleshy, succulent leaves and showy pink or white 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 rediviva |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or alpine trough
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, well-draining soil with minimal organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in cooler climates; partial shade in hot regions to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; use gritty amendments; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); prefers cooler nights and tolerates frost.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good drainage in cold; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, avoid in dormancy
Fertilize only during active growth; use weak solutions; stop in summer and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division of offsets; stem cuttings are less common and challenging.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds or divide offsets.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or offsets.
- Maintain consistent moisture and warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, and humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix such as sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but can aid root development.
Timeline
Seeds may take several weeks to months to germinate; offsets can be established in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, small pots, well-draining mix, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Inspect for dead foliage; use clean tools; remove carefully; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot only slightly larger than the current one (1–2 inches wider).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in a well-draining mix with added grit or sand; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as Lewisia rediviva prefers being slightly root-bound; typically every 2–3 years or when growth slows.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining 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 for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring), allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in summer dormancy and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; avoid heavy clay or dense soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; rot or failure to flower in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet; may survive frost but requires well-drained soil.
Solution: Ensure excellent drainage; protect from prolonged freezing temperatures; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may stall, and flowering can be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid during dormancy; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply sparingly in early spring; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Lewisia rediviva may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The toxic compounds in the roots and leaves can cause digestive upset in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Lewisia rediviva by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's roots and leaves contain irritants that may cause discomfort in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLewisia rediviva contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's roots and leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lewisia rediviva edible?
A: The roots of Lewisia rediviva were historically consumed by Native American tribes, but it is not commonly eaten today.
Q: How often should I water Lewisia rediviva?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Lewisia rediviva attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its vibrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Montiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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