One of the most treasured rock garden plants. Forming low, fleshy rosettes of tough evergreen leaves, bearing large, rich raspberry-pink flowers with orange-peach tones in late spring and early summer, repeat flowering in the autumn. Tolerates heat and drought well, also happy in cooler temperatures. Full sun and free-draining soil. Height 15cm. Spread 20cm. Hardy, protect from winter wet.
Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ is a compact evergreen perennial prized for its fleshy rosettes and rich raspberry-pink flowers with warm orange-peach tones. Particularly suited to rock gardens, gravel gardens and containers, it flowers in late spring and early summer, often producing a second display in autumn.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Plant Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ in spring once the soil is workable and conditions are becoming warmer. This gives the roots time to establish before the main flowering and growing season.
Early Autumn: Early autumn planting is also possible in very free-draining soil, allowing the roots to settle before growth slows. Avoid planting into ground that is likely to remain wet during winter.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ performs best in full sun. A bright, open position encourages compact growth and abundant flowering.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential. Choose gritty, free-draining soil and incorporate horticultural grit where necessary. Raised beds, rockeries and sloping sites are particularly suitable because excess water can drain away quickly.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball, ensuring the surrounding soil is loose and well drained.
Soil Preparation: Mix horticultural grit into heavier soil to improve drainage and reduce the risk of water collecting around the roots.
Planting: Position Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ with the crown slightly above the surrounding soil level. Planting at a slight angle can also help prevent moisture from settling in the rosette.
Watering After Planting: Water gently after planting to settle the soil around the roots without saturating the crown.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Water moderately while the plant is establishing, allowing the soil to begin drying between waterings. Established plants tolerate periods of dry weather particularly well.
Dormant Season: Keep Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ considerably drier during winter. Excessive moisture around the crown and roots should be avoided.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a light, balanced fertiliser as active growth begins. Avoid excessive feeding, as overly rich conditions can encourage soft growth.
Flowering Season: Container-grown plants can benefit from an occasional diluted liquid feed during active flowering.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove faded flower stems regularly to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage further flowering.
Seasonal Care: Remove any damaged or decaying leaves carefully. Healthy evergreen foliage should remain in place throughout the year.
Mulching
Around the Crown: Use horticultural grit or fine gravel rather than moisture-retentive organic mulch around Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’. This keeps the crown dry and improves drainage.
Winter Care: Ensure fallen leaves and other damp debris do not accumulate around the rosette during colder months.
Supporting the Plant
Natural Habit: Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ has a naturally compact growth habit, reaching around 15cm tall, so staking or additional support is unnecessary.
Final Tips
Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ is an excellent choice for rockeries, gravel gardens, raised beds and well-drained containers. Protecting the crown from prolonged winter moisture is more important than providing additional warmth. With full sun, excellent drainage and careful watering, Lewisia ‘Little Raspberry’ can provide beautiful displays of colourful flowers in both spring and autumn.
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