Pink Purslane
Portulaca pilosa
Pink Purslane
About this plant
Portulaca pilosa, commonly called Pink Purslane, is a small succulent plant with fuzzy, hairy leaves and bright pink flowers. It spreads low to the ground and is often used as ground cover in gardens. This plant is drought-tolerant and thrives in hot, sunny environments. It is appreciated for its attractive flowers and easy care.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Portulaca
- Family
- Portulacaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Caryophyllales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central and South America, Caribbean
- Distribution
- Native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas; widely cultivated in warm climates worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse, Indoor
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water sparingly, especially in cooler months, to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed lightly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid over-fertilizing as it can harm the plant.
Portulaca pilosa is a tough, low-maintenance succulent that thrives in sunny, dry conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought well. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water sparingly. It requires minimal care and is suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Fuzzy green leaves with a soft texture and bright pink, star-shaped flowers that bloom in summer. Forms a spreading mat-like growth.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for homes with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Portulaca pilosa is generally not known to cause allergies. However, people sensitive to plant sap or pollen might experience mild skin irritation or sneezing. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the plant's sap and keep it away from areas where pollen can accumulate indoors.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Poor drainage or too much shade may cause the plant to become weak or leggy. Pests are rarely a problem.
Uses
Used as an ornamental ground cover in gardens and containers. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Notes
Prune occasionally to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot if the plant outgrows its container, preferably in spring. Sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage.