Indian Purslane
coronopus didymus
Also known as: ["Shoreweed","Small-flowered Winter-cress"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with small, yellow flowers and pinnately divided leaves, often found in disturbed soils and coastal areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Coronopus |
| Botanical Name: | Coronopus didymus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust care seasonally; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months during active growth
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water.
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, targeting the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then stop to prevent saturation. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use evaporative cooling methods.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest large amounts of Coronopus didymus. The plant's compounds can cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, Coronopus didymus can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in significant amounts. The oxalic acid content may lead to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicCoronopus didymus, commonly known as Indian Purslane, contains small amounts of oxalic acid and other compounds that can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. The plant may cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Coronopus didymus edible?
A: While it has been used in traditional medicine and as a food source, it is considered mildly toxic and should be consumed with caution.
Q: Where does Coronopus didymus typically grow?
A: It is commonly found in disturbed soils, coastal areas, and waste places.
Q: Does Coronopus didymus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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