Bitterroot
ExplorePlants
Bitterroot
Lewisia rediviva
Bitterroot is a pretty flower that grows in the mountains. It has pink or white petals and is known for its special roots that can be eaten. It blooms in spring and loves sunny places!
Habitat: Mountain regions
Appearance
The Bitterroot has striking rose-pink to white flowers, often with darker stripes, that emerge directly from a low rosette of narrow, fleshy leaves. Its bright petals stand out vividly against dry, rocky ground, making it easily spotted.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderCaryophyllalesFamilyMontiaceaeGenusLewisia
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
It's the state flower of Montana, a symbol of its rugged mountain beauty!
Its name comes from roots that taste bitter unless prepared correctly!
Its nutritious roots were a vital food source, even traded like currency!
This tough plant can bloom again even after its leaves have completely withered!
Special abilities
Ability
Water Storage Roots
Bitterroot can survive long droughts because its fleshy taproot stores vital water and nutrients deep underground.
Ability
Resurrection Plant
Bitterroot has an amazing ability to "play dead," shriveling up and appearing lifeless, only to burst into bloom again later!
Ability
Drought Dormancy
Bitterroot can go dormant during dry periods, shedding its leaves to conserve moisture until conditions improve.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 1-5 cm
- Spread
- 2-10 cm
- Flower Size
- 2-5 cm
- Bloom Season
- Spring_to_early_summer
- Edible
- Yes
- Toxicity
- None
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
Two-form Bumblebee
Bombus bifarius
Collects pollen and nectar from its vibrant flowers.
pollinates
Honeybee
Apis mellifera
Visits flowers, aiding in its reproduction.
eaten by
Deer Mouse
Peromyscus maniculatus
May nibble on its leaves or flower parts.
eaten by
Northern Pocket Gopher
Thomomys talpoides
Digs for and consumes its fleshy roots.
Traits
Flowering
Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.
Spring Blooming
Spring blooming plants produce their flowers during the spring season, often signifying the end of winter and the start of new growth.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Medicinal
Medicinal plants possess chemical compounds that can be used for therapeutic purposes to treat illnesses or maintain health.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Edible
Edible plants are those parts of a plant that are considered safe for human consumption.
Mountain
This habitat trait identifies species found in mountainous regions, characterized by high elevation, steep slopes, and varying climate zones.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Always look but don't touch wild plants unless a grown-up says it's okay.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Bitterroot?
1-5 cm
How wide does Bitterroot spread?
2-10 cm
How big are the flowers on Bitterroot?
2-5 cm
When does Bitterroot bloom?
Spring_to_early_summer
Is Bitterroot edible?
Yes
Is Bitterroot toxic?
None
What is Bitterroot's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is Bitterroot pollinated?
Insect
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