Texas Tech University

Moss Rose, Common Portulaca

Portulaca grandiflora
Succulents

(Detailed plant information can be found at the bottom of the page.)
Portulaca grandiflora

Portulaca grandiflora Photo Gallery



Portulaca grandiflora Plant Information

Classification  
   
Scientific Name: Portulaca grandiflora
Common Name: moss rose

common portulaca
Family: Portulacaceae
Suggested Uses: annuals, groundcovers, beds & borders, container plantings, hanging baskets
   
Characteristics  
   
Plant Form: spreading, cascading
Height: 6 - 8 inches
Spread: 12 - 18 inches
Foliage: leaves are alternate, narrow, fleshy and less than 1" long
Flower: rose, red, yellow, white, orange, and salmon flowers are rose-like or cup-shaped

flowers close in the afternoon
Bloom Period: Summer - Fall
   
Environment  
   
Sun: full sun
Water: low water requirement

drought-tolerant
Soil: prefers well-drained, loose soil

pH adaptable
Heat Tolerance: very high heat tolerance
Native Range: South America
   
Care  
   
Maintenance: reseeds, but plants may not be true to form

propagation by seed or stem cuttings
Pests & Pathology: susceptible to root rot and crown rot

TTU Plant Resources