The Whimsical Perennial Flower That Will Last In Your Garden For Years

It can be disheartening to watch the garden you've worked so hard to maintain, die off at the end of the season. Replanting each year can be a hassle, and one that can get expensive. This is where perennial plants, those that live for many years, come in handy. Cliff maids (Lewisia cotyledon) are whimsical perennials that will last in your garden for years to come.

This gorgeous species is native to the subalpine terrain of northern California and southern Oregon. From spring to early summer, it produces the prettiest flowers on 12-inch tall stems in colors of white, pink, red, or orange. These blooms are star-shaped and each floral stem can boast up to 50 individual flowers. The plant's tough roots also makes it the perfect addition to bring color to container gardens or rock plantings, as these can happily anchor in even harsh environments, thanks to their deep taproot. Even when they're not in bloom, the rosettes of foliage are evergreen, so you'll enjoy their beauty all year long.

Cliff maids thrive in full sunlight. Plant them where they will receive at least 6 hours a day. In hot climates, cliff maids will benefit from some afternoon shade, as exposure to the harsh rays of the mid-afternoon sun can cause the leaves to burn. Well-draining soil is essential to keep the roots healthy. Heavy, compacted soils should be avoided to ensure excellent drainage and make it easy for the taproot to establish. If you're planting in a container, choose one with plenty of holes for drainage and fill it with a succulent mix. Cliff maids can be grown indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight. They grow to 4 to 12 inches tall and 1 foot wide.

Cliff maids tolerate a wide range of conditions, growing in zones 3 through 8. However, they're not very tolerant of high humidity or frequent rain. Once established, they're relatively low-maintenance perennial plants. Fertilization is usually unnecessary for these plants, unless you suspect a nutrient deficiency. They also don't need to be pruned or deadheaded.

Like most succulents, the main problem that cliff maids face is excess water, either due to overwatering or poor drainage. Overwatering can cause root and crown rot. Signs of root rot include mushy, yellowing, and drooping leaves. To avoid excess water, make sure you let the soil or potting mix dry out between waterings.

Insufficient light is another common issue for cliff maids. If your plants are not flowering, this is likely the reason. However, if they're getting at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and still will not flower, they could be deficient in important nutrients, like phosphorus. A little diluted liquid fertilizer during the blooming season can help encourage the growth of more flowers.

Insects are not typically a problem for cliff maids. However, aphids, slugs, and snails can cause unsightly damage and slime trails. If it bothers you, you can use organic pest control methods like insecticidal soap or neem oil to naturally repel pests from your garden.