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Description
Lewisia Cotyledon, commonly known as Siskiyou Lewisia, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the Siskiyou Mountains and Cascade Range of North America. It belongs to the family Montiaceae and is prized for its vibrant, showy flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant’s rosettes of fleshy leaves are attractive year-round, making it a popular choice for rock gardens and alpine plantings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Montiaceae |
| Genus | Lewisia |
Appearance
Lewisia Cotyledon typically grows to a height of 6-12 inches and spreads out in a low rosette. It has thick, fleshy leaves that are arranged in a spiral pattern and range in color from green to reddish-brown. The plant produces a single stalk that rises above the foliage and bears clusters of brightly colored, cup-shaped flowers. The flowers come in a range of colors including pink, red, orange, and yellow, and have five petals that are often fringed or toothed. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and can be encouraged to rebloom by deadheading spent flowers.
Care Guide
Lewisia Cotyledon is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Soil: Plant your Lewisia Cotyledon in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A sandy or rocky soil is ideal.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones: Lewisia Cotyledon is hardy in USDA Zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lewisia Cotyledon is relatively pest and disease-resistant but can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if overwatered. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, especially in hot, dry weather. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lewisia Cotyledon is native to the Siskiyou Mountains and Cascade Range of North America, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil at high elevations. It can be found in alpine meadows, talus slopes, and along rocky stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lewisia Cotyledon be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lewisia Cotyledon can be grown in containers as long as they have adequate drainage and are not overwatered.
Q: How often should Lewisia Cotyledon be fertilized?
A: Lewisia Cotyledon should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the best time to plant Lewisia Cotyledon?
A: Lewisia Cotyledon can be planted in the spring or fall, but fall planting is preferred in areas with hot summers.
Q: How often should Lewisia Cotyledon be watered?
A: Lewisia Cotyledon should be watered regularly during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Related Plants
- Lewisia brachycalyx
- Lewisia columbiana
- Lewisia cotyledon ‘Regenbogen’
- Lewisia disepala
- Lewisia kelloggii
- Lewisia longipetala
- Lewisia rediviva
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/lewisia/growing-lewisia-plants.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18885/Lewisia-cotyledon/Details
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lewisia_cotyledon.shtml
