Contents
Description
Portulaca Lutea, also known as Yellow Purslane, is a flowering plant that is native to South America but has also been introduced to other parts of the world. It is an annual succulent that grows up to 15 cm in height and can spread up to 30 cm in width. The plant has yellow flowers that bloom from summer to fall and has a low-growing, mat-forming habit. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and ground covers.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: | Eukaryota |
---|---|
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
Class: | Magnoliopsida |
Order: | Caryophyllales |
Family: | Portulacaceae |
Genus: | Portulaca |
Appearance
The leaves of Portulaca Lutea are fleshy and thick, and can vary in color from green to reddish-purple. The stems are also succulent and can be reddish in color. The flowers are small, measuring about 1 cm in diameter, and have five petals that are bright yellow in color. The plant blooms profusely in the summer and fall, and the flowers usually close up at night.
Care Guide
Portulaca Lutea is an easy plant to care for and is perfect for beginners. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A sandy or loamy soil is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.
- Hardiness Zones: Portulaca Lutea is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Portulaca Lutea is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Other potential diseases include powdery mildew and leaf spot. Common pests that may affect the plant include spider mites and aphids.
Habitat
Portulaca Lutea is native to South America but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia. It prefers dry, sandy or rocky soils and can often be found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and vacant lots.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Portulaca Lutea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should Portulaca Lutea be fertilized?
A: The plant only needs to be fertilized once a year in the spring with a light application of a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Portulaca Lutea drought tolerant?
A: Yes, the plant is drought tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
Q: Can Portulaca Lutea be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a 2-3 inch cutting and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until the cutting has rooted.
Related Plants
- Portulaca Grandiflora
- Portulaca Oleracea
- Portulaca Pilosa
References
- “Portulaca Lutea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=c542.
- “Portulaca Lutea.” PlantFiles. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/140699/.
- “Yellow Purslane.” Plant Village. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://plantvillage.psu.edu/topics/yellow-purslane/infos.