Lewisia pygmaea aka Alpine Bitterroot

Lewisia pygmaea is a small perennial in the Montiaceae family. Its common names include alpine lewisia and pygmy bitterroot. It grows wild from southern Yukon into the western United States. Its range also reaches the west-central United States. This mountain plant lives in subalpine and subarctic climates. It grows in open ground, sometimes above the tree line. Its habitats include short turf, gravel, and rocky sites. These sites range from moist to somewhat dry.

In gardens, it reaches about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] tall and wide. The plant forms a compact tuft and sheds its leaves. Its dark green leaves are thick and fleshy. They range from narrow strips to lance shapes. Each leaf can reach about 0.26 feet [0.08 metres] long. The flower stems may rise partway upright or lie flat. Flowers open from late spring into early summer. They may be white, pink, or red. Each bloom can span about 0.05 feet [0.015 metres]. Strong veins may mark the petals.

Give this plant full sun or a lightly shaded spot. It grows in sandy or loamy soil with good drainage. The soil should have moderate fertility and an acid to neutral pH. Its moisture range runs from dry to moist. Keep excess winter rain from soaking the plant. Wet conditions can lead to rot around its neck. RHS assigns it the UK hardiness rating H4. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 3–7. These ratings come from different regional systems.

Its small size suits rock gardens, gravel beds, and containers. It also fits gaps in a retaining wall. An alpine house offers another place to grow it. Plants take about two to five years to reach full size. Grow new plants from seed or separate their offsets. No pruning is needed. Watch for aphids, slugs, and snails. Good drainage remains important because of the risk of rot.

Plants For A Future records the root as an edible part. Traditional preparation includes soaking and boiling it. The root can also be dried for later use. Its bitter outer layer comes away more easily during flowering. A bitter aftertaste may remain after eating. The same source lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. It also records a traditional belief that eating the root could harm the mind. That report does not establish toxicity or prove safety. It is not listed as a weed risk.