Bitterroot, Butter-root, Spatlum
Lewisia rediviva
Family: Portulacaceae
What it is like
A small plant. The roots are fleshy. It grows 10 cm high and spreads 20 cm wide. It loses its leaves during the year. The leaves are in a dense tuft near the base. They are narrow and 5 cm long. The flowers are white. They occur singly and are 5 cm across. They have up to 6 petals. They can be pink, purple or white.
There are 20 Lewisia species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. In Canada it grows in dry, gravely or sandy soils in the plains and lower mountains. It suits hardiness zones 4-9.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Canada, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The roots are eaten after boiling or roasting. They are peeled to remove the bitter rind. The roots are also dried and ground into a meal. The bitterness is reduced if plants are stored for about 2 years.
It has been an important staple food.
Edible parts
Root
How it is grown
The starchy roots are harvested just before plants flower. The outer layer is bitter and is peeled off. The roots are then cooked. The roots can be dried then soaked before use.
Its other names
Local names
Kanicy