Pigmy bitterroot, Bitter root
Lewisia pygmaea
Family: Portulacaceae
What it is like
A small herb. It has a long taproot. The leaves are narrow and spread out flat near the ground from the top of the taproot.
There are 20 Lewisia species. It is a rare plant.
Where it is found
It grows high in the Rocky Mountains near the tree line. It can grow on dry or moist gravely slopes.
Countries/locations it is found in
Canada, North America, Slovenia, USA
How it is used for food
The roots are peeled and the centre removed then eaten fresh or baked or boiled. The small bitter red section inside near the top is removed. The roots can be dried for later use.
Edible parts
Root
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Levizija