Portulaca

Portulaca is a genus of annual flowering plants containing 153 species in the purslane family. The various species are native to countries throughout the world, across the southern hemisphere and north to middle America and western Europe.  It has a shrubby habit, succulent leaves and colorful, showy flowers, and grows well in containers or as a houseplant. The roots can be tuberous, fleshy, fibrous, or small taproots depending on the species. The genus name comes from the Latin for little door, in reference to the lid of the seed capsule.

This plant does best in full sun or bright direct light. It tolerates poor to average soils as long as it is dry to moderately moist and well-drained. It is drought tolerant and does well in heat and humidity. Sow seed directly in the garden after last frost date, or start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before that date. Set out seedlings and purchased plants at last frost date. The plants may self-seed, but you can remove the spent blooms if growing outside to prevent self-seeding.

Quick ID:

• Procumbent or decumbent stems
• Thin, fleshy leaves about 1 inch in length
• Leaves cluster at stem tips and joints
• Heart-shaped petals that close at night or cloudy days

VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti," a plant identification course created in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No known insect or disease problems. Aphids can be an issue and crown rot may occur in poorly-drained soils.