Sunrose

portulaca umbraticola

Also known as: ["Moss Rose","Moss-rose Purslane"]

Family: Portulacaceae Genus: Portulaca Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, succulent annual with fleshy leaves and bright, cup-shaped flowers that open in full sun.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Portulacaceae
Genus: Portulaca
Botanical Name: Portulaca umbraticola

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; place in brightest spot indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil dries between waterings.

Temperature

Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); sensitive to frost; prefers stable temperatures.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature drops.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep humid until roots form.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–3 weeks; establish in 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; prune after flowering to promote rebloom.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root rot due to reduced evaporation.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or drooping; may cease flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Portulaca umbraticola may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Portulaca umbraticola can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Portulaca umbraticola may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting in Portulaca umbraticola is often associated with root or stem rot caused by excessive moisture and fungal pathogens, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Portulaca umbraticola is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats interacting with this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Portulaca umbraticola is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs interacting with this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Portulaca umbraticola is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human interaction with this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Portulaca umbraticola require much water?

A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil, making it suitable for low-water conditions.

Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?

A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage; ensure the plant is not sitting in water.

Q: Can this plant grow in shade?

A: Portulaca umbraticola thrives in full sun and may not perform well in shade.

Quick Reference
Family: Portulacaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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