Origin
Lewisias are a group of perennial plants that are native to North America. Specifically, Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell is native to California and can be found in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Common Names
Lewisias are commonly known as bitterroots or bittercresses due to their bitter taste. Lewisia cantelovii, specifically, is also known as Cantelow's Lewisia in honor of George H. Cantelow who collected the first specimen in 1933.
Uses
Lewisias are grown mainly for their beautiful, brightly-colored flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers range in color from white to shades of purple and pink and are known for their distinctive, saucer-shaped appearance. Lewisias are also used in rock gardens or as ground cover due to their mat-forming habit.
General Appearance
Lewisias are low-growing, succulent plants that form compact rosettes of fleshy leaves. The leaves are typically gray-green or blue-green in color and are often covered in fine hairs. The flowers grow on long stems that are held above the leaves and can range in size from half an inch to two inches in diameter.
Lewisias are adapted to rocky, mountainous habitats and are well-suited to well-draining soil and full sun exposure. They are hardy and can withstand temperatures below freezing, though they may benefit from some protection in extremely cold climates. Lewisia cantelovii, specifically, is considered an excellent choice for rock gardens or as a ground cover due to its adaptability and attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell is a plant that requires a lot of light to grow well. It can tolerate some shade, but it should ideally be placed in a location that gets full sun exposure or partial shade with plenty of direct sunlight. A lack of light can result in weak growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is well-suited to grow in areas with cool summers and mild winters. The ideal temperature range for Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell is between 45-75°F (7-24°C). Temperatures above 80°F (26°C) can cause the plant to go dormant, and temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can be harmful to its growth.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial for the growth of Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell. The soil should be loose and porous to ensure good drainage. The best soil for this plant is a mixture of sand, gravel, and loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0-7.5). It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Lewisias require well-draining soil to prevent root rot, which can be fatal. They are best grown in containers, rock gardens, or beds with sharp drainage and a slightly alkaline pH level between 6.5 to 7.5. When planting, make sure to loosen the soil to a depth of at least 8 inches and amend with sand or gravel to improve drainage. These plants also thrive in full sun to partial shade, depending on the region's climate.
Watering Needs
Lewisias need moderate watering, mainly during their active growing season, which occurs in spring and summer. However, avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot and lead to plant death. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again and avoid getting water on the leaves, which can cause fungal diseases. It's also best to water in the morning so that any splashed water on the foliage can dry out during the day.
Fertilization
These plants don't require much fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring can help promote healthy growth. Alternatively, you can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Be sure not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and poor blooming.
Pruning
Lewisias don't require much pruning, but removing spent flower stems can help promote continued blooming. These plants also benefit from deadheading, which involves removing dead flower heads to promote new growth and flowering. Prune any damaged or dead leaves and stems, as they can attract pests and diseases that can harm the plant.
Propagation of Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell
Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell is a rare and unique plant that is native to rocky slopes and outcroppings in the western United States, particularly in California and Nevada. It is a sought-after plant due to its striking appearance, which features rosettes of fleshy, lance-shaped leaves and vibrant pink to magenta flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. To propagate this plant successfully, there are two main methods that gardeners use: seeds and division.
Propagation by Seeds
This method of propagating Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell involves starting the plant from seeds that are harvested from a mature plant. The best time to do this is during the summer months when the plant has stopped flowering and has produced seed pods. Follow these steps to successfully propagate the plant using seeds:
- Collect seed pods from a mature plant. Make sure that the pods are completely dry and brown before harvesting them.
- Remove the seeds from the pods, being careful not to damage them.
- Prepare a container with a well-draining potting mix. Opt for a mix that is specifically designed for succulents or cacti.
- Moisten the soil, but do not soak it.
- Sow the seeds onto the surface of the soil and gently press them in, so they make good contact with the soil. Do not cover the seeds with soil as they need light to germinate.
- Place the container in a bright, warm spot but avoid direct sunlight. Cover it with a plastic bag or lid to retain moisture.
- Check the container daily and water the soil if it starts to dry out. Be careful not to overwater the seeds, as this can cause them to rot.
- The seeds should germinate in one to two weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by Division
Another method of propagating Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell is by division. This method involves separating a mature plant into smaller sections and repotting them to form new plants. Follow these steps to propagate the plant using the division method:
- Select a mature plant that has multiple rosettes or offsets.
- Remove the plant from its pot if it is potted and gently shake off the excess soil to expose the roots.
- Using a sharp, clean knife, separate the rosettes or offsets from the parent plant, making sure that each section has a healthy root system.
- Prepare a new pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Make a small hole in the soil for each section and plant them to the same depth as they were in the parent plant.
- Water the soil and place the pot in a bright, warm location, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Check the pot daily and water the soil if it starts to dry out. The plant should establish itself in the new pot in a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell
Lewisias are generally hardy, but they can be vulnerable to certain pests and diseases, particularly in moist and humid conditions. Effective disease and pest management can help maintain the health and vigor of Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell.
Common Diseases
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell. It causes circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves, which can merge and cause the entire leaf to die. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that produces a powdery white coating on the leaves and affects their growth and overall health.
The best way to manage fungal diseases is to maintain good hygiene practices by pruning off affected leaves, improving air circulation and reducing moisture. Chemical fungicides can also be used in severe cases, but non-toxic alternatives can be just as effective.
Common Pests
Slugs and snails are the most significant pests that affect Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell. They can cause damage to the leaves, flowers, and stem by feeding on them, and they thrive in moist conditions. Another pest to watch out for is aphids, which suck the sap from the plant and weaken its vitality.
The best way to manage pests is by handpicking them in the evening when they are most active, using slug traps, and applying organic pest controls. Horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps can also be used to control aphids and other pests.
Overall, maintaining a clean and healthy garden environment, providing adequate water and drainage, and ensuring proper air circulation can prevent and control most diseases and pests that affect Lewisia cantelovii J.T. Howell.
