[Wikipedia] Description, Distribution: Bitterroot (Lewisia rediviva) is a small perennial herb in the family Montiaceae. Its specific epithet rediviva ("revived, reborn") refers to its ability to regenerate from dry and seemingly dead roots. The genus Lewisia was moved in 2009 from the purslane family (Portulacaceae) with adoption of the APG III system, which established the family Montiaceae. Description Flower in University of California Botanical Garden Lewisia rediviva is a low-growing perennial plant with a fleshy taproot and a simple or branched base. The flower stems are leafless, 1 to 3 centimetres tall, bearing at the tip a whorl of 5 to 6 linear bracts which are 5 to 10 mm long. A single flower appears on each stem with 5 to 9 oval-shaped sepals. They range in color from whitish to deep pink or lavender. Flowering occurs from April through July.The petals (usually about 15) are oblong in shape and are 18 to 35 millimetres. At maturity, the bitterroot produces egg-shaped capsules with 6 to 20 nearly round seeds. The thick roots come into season in spring and can survive extremely dry conditions. If collected early enough in the season, they can be peeled, boiled, and made into a jelly-like food. Distribution The plant is native to western North America from low to moderate elevations on grassland, open bushland, forest in dry rocky or gravelly soils. Its range extends from southern British Columbia, through Washington and Oregon west of the Cascade Range to southern California, and east to western Montana, Wyoming, northern Colorado and northern Arizona. (contributed by Mary Ann Machi)