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Description
Portulaca Suffrutescens, commonly known as moss rose or rock rose, is a flowering succulent plant that belongs to the Portulacaceae family. It is a drought-tolerant perennial that is native to South America, specifically Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and up to 2 feet in width. It has a succulent stem that is woody at the base and branches out to form a dense, mat-like growth.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Portulacaceae |
| Genus | Portulaca |
Appearance
Portulaca Suffrutescens has small, succulent, spoon-shaped leaves that are green or purple in color. The plant produces vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that can be pink, orange, red, yellow, or white. The flowers bloom from late spring to early autumn and last only for a day. The plant’s foliage grows low to the ground and forms a dense mat that can be used as a groundcover. The succulent stem is woody at the base and branches out to form a dense mat-like growth.
Care Guide
Portulaca Suffrutescens is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Portulaca Suffrutescens is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or the plant is overwatered. Spider mites and aphids are also common pests that can infest the plant. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Portulaca Suffrutescens is native to South America, particularly Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in hot and dry conditions. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in containers or as a groundcover in rock gardens or xeriscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Portulaca Suffrutescens poisonous?
A: No, Portulaca Suffrutescens is not toxic to humans or pets.
Q: Can Portulaca Suffrutescens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Portulaca Suffrutescens can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Portulaca Suffrutescens be fertilized?
A: Portulaca Suffrutescens should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Portulaca Suffrutescens?
A: Portulaca Suffrutescens can be propagated by stem cuttings or by division.
Related Plants
- Portulaca grandiflora
- Portulaca oleracea
- Portulaca pilosa
- Portulaca umbraticola
References
- “Portulaca Suffrutescens – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c781.
- “Portulaca Suffrutescens.” Plant Care Today. Accessed October 18, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/portulaca-suffrutescens.html.
- “Portulaca Suffrutescens – Plant Profile.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed October 18, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/2005/.
