Lewisia cotyledon (Cliff Maids)
Botanical name: Lewisia cotyledon
Common name: Cliff Maids
Family: Portulacaceae
Origin: California
USDA Zone: 5-8
Plant form: Small
Mature height: 2-5 ft
Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade
Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.
Watering: Moderate
Flower color: Pink; white and off-white; red, crimson, vinous; yellow, orange
Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growingLewisia cotyledon is a compact evergreen perennial native to rocky slopes and cliff habitats of California and Oregon, valued for its fleshy rosettes and brightly colored star-shaped flowers.
The plant forms low rosettes of smooth succulent leaves that remain attractive year-round. Slender upright stems rise above the foliage bearing star-shaped blooms with numerous narrow petals in shades of pink, salmon, orange, yellow, white, or bicolored combinations, often opening in succession over an extended period. The contrast between the compact rosette and vivid floral display makes it popular in rock gardens, alpine collections, and decorative containers.
Lewisia cotyledon grows best in bright light to partial sun with excellent drainage and mineral-rich soils. It is sensitive to prolonged winter wetness around the crown and performs well in raised beds, crevice gardens, or containers where excess moisture drains rapidly. Generally suited to USDA Zones 5-8, it tolerates cool conditions better than many succulent plants.
