The Story
Plant Bio
Lewisia cotyledon 'Elise Ruby Red' is a perennial succulent with fleshy, rosette-forming leaves and vibrant, bell-shaped red flowers that bloom in spring and early summer, creating a striking ground cover.
This cultivar is distinguished by its intensely vibrant ruby-red flowers and compact growth habit, making it particularly attractive for rock gardens and alpine plant collections.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
4 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Prefers dry conditions
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Northwest North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Early spring – Mid-spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water gently to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Place in partial sun for optimal blooming.
- Mist cuttings lightly during propagation for best success.
- Ensure soil remains dry between watering to prevent rot.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during dormancy 🌱
- Provide partial sun for best growth
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Do not plant in heavy clay soil
- Keep in full shade which can cause legginess
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| 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
Elise Ruby Red Lewisia questions
What zones can Elise Ruby Red Lewisia grow in?
Elise Ruby Red Lewisia is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Elise Ruby Red Lewisia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Elise Ruby Red Lewisia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Elise Ruby Red Lewisia bloom?
Elise Ruby Red Lewisia typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Elise Ruby Red Lewisia need full sun?
Elise Ruby Red Lewisia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Elise Ruby Red Lewisia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Elise Ruby Red Lewisia 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 Raspberry Lewisia
Lewisia longipetala 'Little Raspberry'

Little Plum Lewisia
Lewisia longipetala 'Little Plum'

Bitterroot
Lewisia rediviva 'Cliff Maids'

Elise Lewisia
Lewisia rediviva 'Elise'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Elise Ruby Red Lewisia 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.

