Contents
Description
Lewisia Cantelovii is a beautiful and unique plant that belongs to the Portulacaceae family. It is native to the rocky slopes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California and is known for its vibrant, showy flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The plant is also known as “Sierra Lewisia” or “Cantelow’s Lewisia,” and is a popular choice for rock gardens, containers, and alpine gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Portulacaceae |
| Genus | Lewisia |
Appearance
Lewisia Cantelovii is a small, clumping plant that grows up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It has fleshy, succulent leaves that are green or gray-green in color, and can form a rosette up to 4 inches in diameter. The plant produces showy, cup-shaped flowers that are 2-3 inches in diameter, and come in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer, and can last up to several weeks.
Care Guide
Lewisia Cantelovii is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements.Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is high in organic matter. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss works well.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lewisia Cantelovii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Treat any pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any affected leaves or flowers.
Habitat
Lewisia Cantelovii is native to the rocky slopes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. It grows in well-draining soil, often on rocky outcroppings or in crevices. The plant is adapted to hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lewisia Cantelovii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Lewisia Cantelovii can be grown in containers as long as the soil mix is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.Q: How often should Lewisia Cantelovii be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.Q: Does Lewisia Cantelovii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lewisia Cantelovii is attractive to bees and butterflies.Q: Can Lewisia Cantelovii tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Lewisia Cantelovii is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate frost.
Related Plants
Other species of Lewisia include:
- Lewisia cotyledon
- Lewisia rediviva
- Lewisia tweedyi
References
- “Lewisia Cantelovii.” Pacific Bulb Society. Retrieved from https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/LewisiaCantelovii
- “Lewisia Cantelovii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m100
- “Growing Lewisia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2628/i-lewisia-i/details
