Moss Rose
Portulaca grandiflora
Grandiflora
About this plant
Portulaca, commonly known as Moss Rose, is a small, colorful flowering plant with succulent leaves. It produces bright, rose-like flowers in various colors and is popular for ground cover and container gardens. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in hot, sunny conditions.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Portulaca
- Family
- Portulacaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Caryophyllales
- Plant type
- Annual
- Lifespan
- Annual
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South America
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated worldwide in warm climates; native to South America.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water moderately when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed Portulaca with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowering.
Portulaca is a tough, low-maintenance plant that thrives in sunny spots and dry soil. It does not like too much water, which can cause root rot. Regular watering during very dry periods and full sun exposure help it bloom well.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Bright, colorful flowers and fleshy, succulent leaves that form a low mat.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Portulaca is generally non-toxic but avoid ingestion in large amounts. Keep away from pets to prevent mild stomach upset.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact, Pollen
- Pollen level
- Low
Portulaca plants produce little pollen and are unlikely to cause allergies. However, people sensitive to plant sap might experience mild skin irritation. To reduce exposure, avoid touching the sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot and yellowing leaves. Poor flowering may result from insufficient sunlight. Occasionally, aphids or fungal diseases may appear if air circulation is poor.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental plant for colorful ground cover and container gardens. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping.
Notes
Pinching back can encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Repotting is rarely needed as it grows close to the ground. Avoid waterlogging the soil.