In their natural habitat throughout the mountains of Western North America, different varieties of Bitterroot (Lewisia) are used to a wide range of climates—you’ll find them everywhere from Canada down through the US and into Mexico. Because of this diversity, only certain varieties can actually handle a typical winter outdoors in cooler temperate regions.
Not exactly a “forever” plant
In most garden centers, you’ll mainly find Bitterroot varieties that are marketed as being able to stay in the garden year-round. However, it’s worth noting that Bitterroot isn’t exactly a long-lived perennial. Even with hardy varieties like *Lewisia cotyledon*, it’s often smarter to propagate them to get fresh young plants rather than trying to nurse an older specimen through several winters.
The “wet feet” problem
There’s another big reason why leaving Bitterroot in the garden over winter can be tricky: moisture. During the winter months, these plants need very little water. If they get hit with too much rain or sit in soggy soil, they are incredibly prone to root rot, which will quickly kill off the entire plant. Unless you live in an area with very dry winters, leaving them outside is a gamble. That said, if you can keep them dry, the hardy varieties can easily handle temperatures down to -4°F (-20°C).
Greenhouses and sunrooms are your best bet
Because they like to stay dry but cool, Bitterroot does great spending the winter in a greenhouse or an unheated sunroom. Regardless of how much rain you expect, it’s always a good idea to dig up young plants and move them into pots before the first frost. You can move them back out into the garden starting in April. Just remember to go easy on the watering during the winter—let the plant rest and recharge its energy for the spring.
When it comes to getting your Bitterroot through the winter, keep these tips in mind:
- Only specific varieties are truly winter-hardy.
- Leaving them in the garden is risky because too much moisture causes rot.
- Young plants should always be moved to a cool, bright indoor spot.
