Hairy Purslane
portulaca pilosa
Also known as: ["Hairy Purslane","Cossackia pilosa","Hairy Pigweed"]
Overview
A low-growing, succulent annual herb with fleshy, cylindrical leaves and small, pinkish-purple flowers that open in full sun.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Portulacaceae |
| Genus: | Portulaca |
| Botanical Name: | Portulaca pilosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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 soil with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in very hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential for compact growth; rotate pots for even light exposure; avoid deep shade to prevent etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when soil is dry to the touch
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use sandy soil; ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay mixes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–90°F or 18–32°C); thrives in heat and tolerates mild frost but prefers stable warm conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good drainage in heat; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; apply after watering to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with bright indirect light; protect from direct sun until established.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 1–2 weeks; new growth appears in 3–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Sharp scissors or pruning shears, clean blades.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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 early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency during winter or rainy periods to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf drop or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; susceptible to frost damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow despite warmth; soil may dry too quickly.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume significant amounts of Portulaca pilosa. The oxalates in the plant can lead to discomfort, though the plant is not highly toxic to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large amounts of Portulaca pilosa due to its oxalate content. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort in large ingestions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicPortulaca pilosa contains oxalates which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in significant amounts. The plant is generally considered safe for small ingestions but may pose risks in larger quantities due to its oxalate content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Portulaca pilosa edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems are edible and can be used in salads or as a potherb.
Q: Does Portulaca pilosa require much water?
A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil with minimal watering.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Portulacaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when soi |
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