Botanical Overview

• Scientific Name: Portulaca grandiflora
• Common Names: Moss rose, sun rose, eleven o’clock, Mexican rose
• Plant Type: Annual (perennial in USDA Zones 10–11)
• Height: Approximately 6–9 inches (15–23 cm)
• Origin: South America (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay)

Key Features

• Vibrant Blooms: Produces ruffled, cup-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, white, and bi-colors.
• Sun-Responsive: Blooms open in full sun and close at night, adding dynamic interest to gardens.
• Succulent Foliage: Fleshy, needle-like leaves store water, enhancing drought tolerance.
• Growth Habit: Low-growing and spreading, making it ideal for ground cover, rock gardens, and hanging baskets.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.

Uses in Landscaping

• Ground Cover: Forms a dense mat, suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture.
• Containers & Hanging Baskets: Trailing habit creates a cascading effect over edges.
• Edging & Borders: Adds a splash of color along pathways and garden beds.
• Xeriscaping: Ideal for drought-prone areas due to its low water requirements.

Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Requires full sun (6–8 hours daily) for optimal blooming.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy or rocky soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0).
• Watering: Drought-tolerant; water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Light feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting; excessive fertilization can reduce flowering.

Maintenance Tips

• Deadheading: Not strictly necessary, but removing spent blooms can encourage continuous flowering.
• Pruning: Trim back leggy growth by up to half in mid to late summer to rejuvenate the plant.
• Pest Management: Generally pest-resistant; however, watch for aphids and mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap if necessary.

Propagation

• Seeds: Sow directly in the garden after the last frost. Seeds require light to germinate; do not cover them with soil.
• Cuttings: Take stem cuttings in summer; they root easily in moist soil.

Cautions

• Frost Sensitivity: Portulaca is not frost-tolerant and should be treated as an annual in cooler climates.
• Pet Safety: Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested; plant with caution in pet-accessible areas.

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