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Wingpod Purslane
- Common Name: Wingpod Purslane
- Scientific Name: Portulaca umbraticola
- Family Name: Portulacaceae
- Origin: The America's
- Height: 6 in
- Width: 2 to 3 ft
- Growth: Moderate
- Zone: Annual in USDA Zones 2 through 10a and perennial in zones 10b through 11
- Light needs: Full sun
- Salt tolerance: High
- Soil/pH/Texture: Prefer sandy, rocky, well-drained soil, but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including poor soil. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.0.
- Moisture: Low water needs once established.
- Drought tolerance: High
- Pests/Diseases: Root rot and fungus may occur in overly wet conditions.
- Growing conditions: This heat-loving, drought-tolerant plant should be grown in full sun. Although it is tolerant of drought, it should be watered somewhat regularly during the growing season to promote flowering. This plant is capable of thriving in a wide range of conditions and takes well to containers and poor soil. It may require some pruning to control its growth, as it can quickly become very weedy, especially in warm climates.
- Characteristics: This squat, herbaceous plant has many spreading stems which lay low to the ground. The leaves, which are rounded and succulent, grow alternately along the stem very closely to each other, forming a dense mat of foliage. Flowers emerge at the ends of stems, having five square-ish petals and fuzzy stamens. Flowers often differ in color between individuals, with some having yellow, pink, or orange flowers, and many plants having a mix of flower colors. The fruits are inconspicuous pods which contain many small, black seeds.
- Propagation: By cuttings or by seeds.
- Facts: Unlike Common Purslane (Portulaca oleracea), it is unknown if Wingpod Purslane is edible, as it is thought to have high oxalic acid content. In the wild, this plant grows on granite outcrops at high altitudes.
- Designer considerations: Wingpod purslane makes an excellent container plant, especially when paired with taller, more erect plants. It is also an excellent groundcover choice, especially for butterfly gardens, as its flowers are attractive to pollinators.
Location
Promenade & Walkways
Wingpod Purslane