Origin and Common Names
Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren is commonly known as the Bitterroot plant. It is a member of the Montiaceae family and is native to western North America, particularly in the regions of the Rocky Mountains, the Cascade Range, and the Sierra Nevada.
General Appearance
The Bitterroot plant is a perennial herb that grows up to 8 inches tall. It has a fleshy, carrot-like taproot that can be up to a foot long. The plant produces a basal rosette of succulent, evergreen leaves that are spoon-shaped and range in color from green to bluish-green. The leaves are 1 to 2 inches long and about 0.5 inches wide. The plant produces a single flowering stalk that can be up to 6 inches tall. The stalk bears 1 to 5 pink to lavender flowers that are 2 to 3 inches in diameter. The flowering period of the plant is from April to June.
Uses
Bitterroot plant has been used for centuries by Native American tribes for food and medicinal purposes. The plant's root was used as a source of food by the Salish, Flathead, Kootenai, and Blackfoot tribes. The root was cooked and dried, then pounded into flour to make bread. The plant was also used as a poultice to treat wounds and as a laxative. Today, the plant is primarily used in ornamental gardens for its showy blooms. It is also recognized as the state flower of Montana.
Light Requirements
Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren typically grows best in areas with plenty of direct sunlight. It is a sun-loving plant and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Without sufficient sunlight, the plant is likely to grow weak and spindly and may not produce blooms.
Temperature Requirements
When it comes to temperature, Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren prefers cooler growing conditions. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) to 80°F (27°C) but it prefers temperatures between 50°F (10°C) to 65°F (18°C) for optimal growth. In hotter conditions, the plant should be grown in partially shaded areas to protect it from the intense heat.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren is well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant is tolerant of poorer soils but adding organic matter like compost, manure, or leaf mold can help improve soil fertility and structure. Additionally, the soil should be loose and crumbly, as the plant has shallow roots that need room to grow.
Cultivation of Lewisia Rediviva Pursh Ssp. Minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren
The Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren plant is a relatively easy plant to grow, as it is often found in arid regions that experience cold winters. However, it is important to take note of the plant's specific needs to ensure its proper growth and development.
Watering Needs
The Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren plant's watering needs differ based on the season. During the summer, it needs ample water to keep the soil moist. In winter, when the plant goes dormant, reduce watering. Avoid overwatering it, as the roots may rot.
Fertilization
As Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren plant is adapted to growing in low nutrient soils, very little fertilizer is necessary. During the growing season, you can use a balanced fertilizer with an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. However, avoid over-fertilizing since it can cause root damage to the plant.
Pruning
Lewisias do not require any significant pruning. However, removing wilted or damaged foliage helps the plant conserve energy by reducing the need for respiratory functions. Late winter or early spring during dormancy is the best time to prune these plants.
Propagation of Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren
Lewisias are herbaceous perennials that belong to the Portulacaceae family. Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren is one of the species found in this genus. Proper propagation methods are required to ensure that they can continue to flourish and produce the creative-looking blooms they are known for.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds are the easiest and most common way to propagate Lewisias. Since Lewisias are native to dry and rocky areas, their seeds are naturally adapted to these types of environments. You can start the seeds indoors or directly sow them in the garden. It's important to stay mindful that the seeds will not sprout until the temperature is above 60°F (15.5°C).
Starting Seeds Indoors
One of the common ways of propagation is by starting seeds indoors. Follow the steps below:
- Start by filling a container or seed tray with a well-draining soil mixture.
- Sow the Lewisia seeds in the soil and ensure they are covered with just a light layer of soil.
- Maintain the soil moisture by watering when it starts to dry out.
- Place the container in a well-lit, warm area
- The seeds should germinate in one to four weeks, depending on the conditions
Direct Sowing Seeds
If you choose to direct sow seeds in the garden, follow the steps below:
- Choose a soil mixture that's well-draining and corresponds with their natural habitat.
- Sow the Lewisia seeds on the surface of the soil.
- Gently press the seeds into the soil to ensure they make good contact.
- Water the soil evenly.
- Place a moisture-retaining cover over the seeds for the first few weeks or until they sprout.
- Remove the cover when you see the seedlings beginning to grow.
Propagation by Division
If you're propagating from an existing Lewisia plant and want to make an exact clone, then propagation by division is the ideal method to use. It's best accomplished in the spring:
- Start by digging up the plant and remove the soil from the root system.
- Remove the roots from the soil, taking care not to damage the roots.
- Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the plant into pieces.
- Each segment should have some shoots and roots.
- Plant the segments in either the garden or a container filled with the appropriate soil mixture.
- Add water to the soil and keep the plant in a shaded area until it takes root.
- When new growth begins to emerge, move the plant to its permanent location.
Disease Management:
Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren is a relatively hardy plant, but it can still be susceptible to certain diseases. Here are a few of the most common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Crown Rot: This fungal disease affects the crown (base) of the plant and can cause yellowing, wilting, and ultimately death. Prevent crown rot by providing proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Remove infected plants and discard to prevent further spread.
- Leaf Spot: Caused by various fungi, leaf spot can cause brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent further spread. Fungicides may be effective in severe cases.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery film on the plant's leaves, powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides may be effective in severe cases.
Pest Management:
Although Lewisia rediviva Pursh ssp. minor (Rydb.) A. Holmgren is relatively resistant to pests, there are a few bugs that may pose a threat. Here are a few of the most common pests and ways to manage them:
- Spider Mites: These tiny bugs can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant's leaves. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings and remove any infected leaves. In severe cases, insecticidal soaps or oils may be effective.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can cause deformed, discolored, or scarred flowers. Encourage natural predators and remove any infected flowers. Insecticidal soaps or oils may be effective in severe cases.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can cause damage to the plant's leaves or flowers. Encourage natural predators like birds and frogs and set up physical barriers around the plant to prevent slug and snail access. You can also handpick these pests and dispose of them.
