Lewisia Columbiana

Description

Lewisia Columbiana, also known as Columbia Lewisia, is a perennial plant native to western North America. This stunning plant belongs to the Portulacaceae family and is known for its vibrant flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow. It grows up to 20 cm in height and spreads to a width of about 30 cm. This plant is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and containers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lewisia Columbiana has thick, succulent leaves that form a rosette at the base of the plant. The leaves are usually green but may have a reddish tint in some varieties. The flowers grow on long, slender stems and bloom from late spring to early summer. They are usually 1-2 cm in diameter and have 5-7 petals. The petals come in a range of colors from pink, red, orange, and yellow. The plant’s small size makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens, containers, and borders.

Care Guide

Water

Lewisia Columbiana prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilization

Fertilize Lewisia Columbiana with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season.

Soil

Lewisia Columbiana prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Mix some sand or perlite into the soil to improve drainage.

Sunlight

Lewisia Columbiana prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will produce fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones

Lewisia Columbiana grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lewisia Columbiana is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Watch out for slugs and snails, which may chew on the leaves and flowers.

Habitat

Lewisia Columbiana is native to western North America and can be found in a range of habitats, including rocky outcrops, cliffs, and dry meadows. It is well-suited to hot, dry climates and can tolerate some cold temperatures.

Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I water Lewisia Columbiana?

A: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Q: Can Lewisia Columbiana grow in shade?

A: It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will produce fewer flowers.

Q: What is the ideal soil for Lewisia Columbiana?

A: Lewisia Columbiana prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Mix some sand or perlite into the soil to improve drainage.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lewisia Columbiana?

A: Lewisia Columbiana grows best in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.

Related Plants

• Lewisia Cotyledon
• Lewisia Howelli
• Lewisia Rediviva
• Lewisia Tweedyi

References

• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lewisia/growing-lewisias.htm
• https://www.gardeningchannel.com/lewisia-columbiana-a-gorgeous-rock-garden-plant/
• https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/lewisia/