Ashwood Nurseries

Lewisias are indigenous to the western parts of the United States. They are found in the spectacular natural landscapes of California, Colorado, Oregan, Nevada. Montana and Washington and also in British Columbia. We have found them clinging precariously to rocky ledges among boulders, on rock-strewn slopes, damp gravely places, alpine meadows and in near desert conditions where rainfall is seasonal and unpredictable.

There are eighteen or so species, many of which are evergreen, but others behave rather like bulbs and have a resting period below ground for part of the year. Several species have large, showy flowers, whilst some are smaller, intricate in detail, but nevertheless have charm and beauty.

The species listed here are mostly produced by hand pollination in an attempt to keep them as pure as possible. These will appeal to the collector of true alpine species. In producing our own hybrids, we have given nature a helping hand. The cotyledon group of Lewisias has enormous potential for diversification into numerous coloured forms, and many years of selection and hand pollination have resulted in the 'Ashwood Strain' which we offer today.

In this range, you will find virtually every colour except blue. We have also developed a range of truly weather resistant Lewisias and at Chelsea 1996, we were able to launch our 'Ashwood Carousel Hybrids'.

Lewisias in Cultivation

In the wild, evergreen Lewisias are frequently found growing vertically in shady rocky crevices, where the roots can reach moisture, but where the collar of the plant remains perfectly drained. If possible, a similar position should be found in the garden, where their natural habitat can be simulated. A well-drained soil is preferred, slightly on the acid side, and once established they will grow happily on any crevice where they can gain a foothold. Lewisias are very frost hardy. They are ideal plants for the alpine house or cold greenhouse, where, protected from the elements, they will flower to perfection.

Seed Sowing

The seed which we sell is identical to that which we use on the nursery. Lewisias require a period of cold to germinate successfully. We recommend sowing in February or March, either in a COLD greenhouse, coldframe, or even outdoors in the shelter of a north wall. (Artificial heat is quite unnecessary, but some protection from very severe cold is advisable).

We use Levington multi-purpose compost and 6in dwarf plastic pots. Fill the pots to within 1/2in of the top, level and water well. Sow about 50 seeds per pot, and cover very lightly with vermiculite and/or grit. Place in a shady position, and cover with an upturned pot or tray. Germination can be fast in ideal conditions (within 14 days), but usually takes about a month.

However, high temperatures can delay germination for up to six months. If you want to raise seedlings during the summer, sow them in the usual way in moist compost and place in a refrigerator for 2 to 3 weeks (not the freezer compartment). Then remove to a cool shady place and await germination. Keep a close watch because we have known seeds germinate whilst in the refrigerator.

Evergreen hybrids and species should be pricked out when seedlings are large enough to handle, putting 24 seedlings per standard seed tray. Grow on in the greenhouse, or cold-frame, keeping cool and well ventilated, and just before the leaves begin to touch, pot on into 31/2" pots. Use John Innes No2 with added peat and perlite for both pricking out and potting on. When well established in the pots, plant out in their permanent positions in the rock garden, or scree, or grow on in the alpine house, potting on as necessary. Deciduous species may be left in their pan for the first year. Pot or re-pan them in October.

When to buy plants and seed

Plants at the nursery are available throughout the year.
If you want to see them in flower, April - May is the best time.
Please telephone/e-mail if you are wishing to purchase specific varieties/colours.

Mail order plug plants are despatched late April/May

Mail order seed is despatched late August/September

Full Colour Brochure - A full colour brochure containing information on Lewisia, Hardy Cyclamen, Anemone Pavonina, Hellebores and Primula Auricula can be obtained for £2.20, (£3.70 for E.U. and Overseas). Contact the nursery with your credit card details.