Pigmy Bitterroot
Lewisia pygmaea
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Pl. 0DE0 — Lewisia pygmaea
Lewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaeaLewisia pygmaea
IOverview
Overview
Pigmy Bitterroot (Lewisia pygmaea) is a small, perennial forb or herb native to the western United States and southern Canada. Found in habitats ranging from Alberta to Wyoming and as far south as Arizona and New Mexico, this plant thrives in light soil conditions that are either sandy or medium-textured. It requires full sun and prefers moist environments. Known for its edible root, Pigmy Bitterroot is a hardy species with a growing range extending from USDA Hardiness Zone 3 to 7. Standing at only about 0.1 meters tall, this plant stands out not just for its diminutive size but also for its light green foliage and delicate pink or white flowers, making it an ornamental addition to gardens where suitable conditions are met.
Quick answers
What is Pigmy Bitterroot?
Pigmy Bitterroot (Lewisia pygmaea) is a small, perennial forb or herb native to the western United States and southern Canada. Found in habitats ranging from Alberta to Wyoming and as far south as Arizona and New Mexico, this plant thrives in light soil conditions that are either sandy or medium-textured.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Pigmy Bitterroot thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. It is hardy in zones 3-7 and can be propagated through division. This perennial grows to a height of about 0.1 meters and is native to several western North American states and provinces, including Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and Yukon. The edible parts are the roots.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.1 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Pigmy Bitterroot for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-loving perennial that thrives in well-draining soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Pigmy Bitterroot seeds or young plants, small pots, potting mix, and a sunny spot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the soil is cool but not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, well-draining soil. Containers should have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in containers or plant young seedlings at the same depth.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide light shade during hot afternoons.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil dries out, and mulch to retain moisture. Fertilize sparingly.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves to maintain plant health but avoid cutting roots.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough light, and neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of the Pigmy Bitterroot (Lewisia pygmaea) is edible and can be dug up and prepared in various ways. It is often eaten raw or lightly cooked to enhance its flavor. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 14 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Yukon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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