Lewisia 'Little Plum'

Where to Plant:

A striking alpine plant, 'Little Plum' produces vibrant, plum-pink flowers over a neat rosette of succulent leaves. Its survival depends entirely on being planted in a spot with impeccable drainage and good air circulation. It needs a position in full sun or light shade. The best locations are those that mimic its native mountain habitat, such as the crevices in a dry stone wall, a steep gravel scree, a rockery, or a dedicated alpine trough where its roots can be kept cool but its crown remains dry.

How to Plant:

When planting, the aim is to prevent any moisture from sitting around the fleshy leaves. Use a very gritty compost mix, with at least 50% horticultural grit. When you place the plant in its hole or pot, make sure the rosette itself is sitting proud of the main compost, on a generous collar of grit or fine gravel. Planting the whole thing at a slight angle is an excellent technique to ensure rainwater never collects in the centre of the plant.

Aftercare:

During its spring and summer growing period, water the plant when the compost is dry, but do not keep it constantly wet. Deadhead the faded flower stems to tidy its appearance. In autumn and winter, it must be protected from excessive rainfall. Move pots to a sheltered spot under the eaves of a house, or into a cold frame. The plant is very cold-hardy, but it is the combination of cold and damp that will kill it.