Pigmy Bitterroot, Alpine lewisia

Lewisia pygmaea

Physical Characteristics

Lewisia pygmaea is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from September to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Western N. America - British Columbia to California, Arizona and New Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Root - cooked. Steeped and boiled[177]. It can also be dried for later use[257]. The root is said to be extremely nutritious[85], though some native North American Indian tribes believed that eating it could cause insanity[257]. It is easiest to use when the plant is in flower because the outer layer of the root (which is very bitter) slips off easily at this time of the year[85]. The root has a good taste though a decided bitter flavour develops afterwards[105, 161].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known