Bitterroot
Lewisia rediviva 'Cliff Maids'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
3 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Drought tolerant
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Western North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Lewisia rediviva, commonly known as bitterroot, is a low-growing, deciduous perennial. It forms a rosette of fleshy, linear leaves that wither away before the showy, satiny, pink to white flowers appear in late spring to early summer. Highly drought-tolerant, this plant is notable for its survival mechanism where the foliage dies back completely in summer to conserve moisture in its fleshy taproot. The flowers appear on leafless stems.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil consistently moist during propagation.
- Ensure the plant is placed in a spot with full sun to promote healthy growth.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry out between watering.
- Apply a light layer of gravel or sand around roots to mimic natural rocky habitat.
- Divide mature plants in early spring every 3-4 years for optimal health.
Pro Tip
Use gritty, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
- Use well-draining rocky or sandy soil to mimic natural habitat
- Water sparingly, especially during dormancy periods
- Fertilize lightly with a cactus or succulent fertilizer in spring
- Mulch with gravel to prevent moisture retention and retain heat
Don't
- Avoid overwatering; Lewisia rediviva is drought-tolerant ❌
- Don’t use heavy clay soil that retains water
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall or winter
- Don’t place in deep shade; it needs full sun
- Avoid disturbing roots during flowering season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bitterroot questions
What zones can Bitterroot grow in?
Bitterroot is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Bitterroot deer resistant?
Yes — Bitterroot is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Bitterroot bloom?
Bitterroot typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bitterroot need full sun?
Bitterroot does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Bitterroot drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Bitterroot handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Lewisia to compare
Siskiyou Lewisia 'Sunset Strain'
Lewisia cotyledon 'Sunset Strain'
Little Peach Lewisia
Lewisia longipetala 'Little Peach'
Little Plum Lewisia
Lewisia longipetala 'Little Plum'
Little Raspberry Lewisia
Lewisia longipetala 'Little Raspberry'
Elise Ruby Red Lewisia
Lewisia cotyledon 'Elise Ruby Red'
Elise Lewisia
Lewisia rediviva 'Elise'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Bitterroot with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
