Life Cycle
Perennial
Plant Characteristics
Low-growing alpine plant
Growth Habit
Compact
Bloom Season
Spring to early summer
Flavour Profile
N/A
Suitable for
Outdoor
Seed Type
Flower seeds
Plant Type
Ornamental
Planting Season
Spring
Fruit Size
N/A
Plant Height
15–30 cm
Light Requirement
Partial sun to light shade
Water Needs
Moderate
Hardiness Zones
Zones 4–8
Container Garden
Yes
Plant Spacing
20–25 cm
Planting Depth
Surface sowing
Growing Conditions
Cool climate
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of native habitat does Lewisia come from?
What kind of native habitat does Lewisia come from?
Lewisia is native to rocky mountain slopes of western North America, adapted to thin, fast-draining alpine soils.
What does Lewisia's flower and foliage look like?
What does Lewisia's flower and foliage look like?
It forms a low rosette of succulent leaves topped with clusters of vividly striped or multicolored blooms.
Is Lewisia sensitive to winter wetness despite being cold hardy?
Is Lewisia sensitive to winter wetness despite being cold hardy?
Yes, it tolerates cold well but is prone to rot if its crown sits in soggy soil over winter.
Why is Lewisia often recommended for rock gardens?
Why is Lewisia often recommended for rock gardens?
Its need for sharp drainage and compact rosette habit make it ideally suited to crevices and rock garden scree beds.
Do pollinators visit Lewisia's colorful blooms?
Do pollinators visit Lewisia's colorful blooms?
Bees are drawn to its bright, striped flowers during the spring to early summer bloom period.
What watering approach keeps Lewisia healthy?
What watering approach keeps Lewisia healthy?
Water sparingly and ensure fast drainage, since consistently wet soil is more damaging to Lewisia than dry conditions.