About
A spreading annual, with prostrate to ascending reddish stems and small, linear, fleshy green leaves. Single or double flowers that open in the sun are produced in summer, in bright shades of red, pink, yellow or white.
About the genus
Portulaca are slightly succulent annuals with fleshy leaves and cup-shaped flowers in shades of red, purple, pink, yellow and white
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial, Cactus Succulent
HabitSpreading branched, Bushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil in full sun; thrives in poor, sandy soils
PruningDeadhead if seed is not required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 13-18°C in mid-spring; plant out after frosts, taking care to minimise root disturbance. Plants may self-seed in place
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free, though seedlings can be susceptible to damping off