Contents
Description
Lewisia Leeana, also known as Lee’s Lewisia or Siskiyou Lewisia, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the western United States. It belongs to the family Montiaceae and is prized for its strikingly beautiful flowers.The plant’s leaves are fleshy, lance-shaped, and range in color from green to gray-green. The flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer, are star-shaped and come in shades of pink, magenta, red, and white. The plant typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 inches and spreads out to form small clumps.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Montiaceae |
| Genus | Lewisia |
| Species | L. leeana |
Appearance
Lewisia Leeana is a small, low-growing plant with fleshy, lance-shaped leaves. The flowers, which are star-shaped and range in color from pink to white, are the main attraction of this plant. They bloom in late spring to early summer and are held on short stems above the foliage.The flowers have five petals and are typically 1 to 2 inches in diameter. They have a delicate, papery texture and are quite striking in appearance. The plant typically grows to a height of 6 to 12 inches and spreads out to form small clumps.
Care Guide
To care for Lewisia Leeana, it is important to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for this plant:- Water: Lewisia Leeana prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Lewisia Leeana prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Adding a layer of mulch around the plants can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Lewisia Leeana is hardy in zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lewisia Leeana is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and crown rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant is growing in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Lewisia Leeana is native to the western United States, where it can be found growing in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-drained soil and is often found growing in crevices in rocks or on rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lewisia Leeana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lewisia Leeana can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lewisia Leeana?
A: Fertilize Lewisia Leeana once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Are there any special pruning requirements for Lewisia Leeana?
A: No, Lewisia Leeana does not require any special pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Lewisia Leeana?
A: Lewisia Leeana can be propagated by seed or by division.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Lewisia cotyledon- Lewisia rediviva- Claytonia lanceolata- Sedum spathulifolium
References
– “Lewisia leeana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287301&isprofile=0&- “Lewisia leeana.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/268758/Lewisia-leeana/Details- “Lewisia leeana.” Pacific Bulb Society. http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Lewisia_leeana
