Portulaca amilis
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Portulaca amilis

Paraguayan purslane · Moss rose

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
20–37 °C
0
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
Click count
117
Observations
10

Description

Source: leafsnap

Portulaca amilis, known as Paraguayan purslane, is a species of Portulaca native to South America. It was introduced to the southeastern United States and other countries around the world and can be found in sandy soil in disturbed areas, roadsides, fields, lawns and gardens.

Care Guide

💧 Water

Paraguayan purslane flourishes in tropical environments, as it is well-suited to both heavy rainfall and dry periods. This plant is drought-tolerant and requires moderate moisture, needing to be watered about twice a week. It is best grown outdoors where it can naturally receive the hydration it needs during the growing season, with rain nourishing its succulent leaves.

☀️ Light Full sun

Native to dry regions, Paraguayan purslane flourishes in full sun, since its original habitat features intense sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in how it grows.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for Paraguayan purslane?

Paraguayan purslane, botanically known as Portulaca amilis, thrives in areas that receive a significant amount of sunlight throughout the day. Specifically, it requires full sun exposure, which means it should receive above 6 hours of sunlight daily, to flourish. However, it can also adapt to partial sun conditions, where it gets about 3-6 hours of sunlight. It's important to observe the sun's movements in your garden to find spots that offer a good balance of light and shade, ensuring the plant's health and happiness.

🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Paraguayan purslane thrives in warm environments and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to encourage growth and metabolic activity. It prefers abundant sunlight, correct moisture levels, and good air circulation. However, it is vulnerable to damage from very low temperatures and from overwatering. It is important to maintain a balance and to avoid both excessively high temperatures and overly dry conditions.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
FAQ
What is the botanical name of Paraguayan purslane?

The botanical name of Paraguayan purslane is Portulaca amilis. It is a species recognized by its unique characteristics, although specific details about its essentials, content, and additional attributes are not provided in this context.

💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 0-0
Soil pH: 0-0
🌱 Fertilizer

For Paraguayan purslane, small amounts of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are enough. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying any. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes flowering.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Paraguayan purslane is known for its lively, succulent leaves and colorful flowers. To promote dense growth and abundant blooms, prune this plant from early to late spring. Trim away dead stems and thin out overcrowded areas to ensure healthier plants and better air circulation. Always use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb, Succulent
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Portulaca
Family
Portulacaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
15 cm
Mature Spread
15 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Pink, White, Yellow
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer, Fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Summer, Fall, Early winter
Native Area
Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, Brazil

Tags (6)

Common Names (2)

en Paraguayan purslane
en Moss rose