How To Grow Portulaca Seeds
Updated on Nov 26, 2021
By Shannon McCabe
Latin name Portulaca grandiflora is a succulent annual member of the purslane family. The drought-tolerant plants are low growing and spreading, providing mats of attractive foliage, smothered in vibrantly colored blooms. Excellent choice for hanging baskets, rock gardens and containers.
HISTORY
Native to South America. It is found growing in the hot, dry plains of Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay.
USES
- Ornamental
- Beds, borders, containers, hanging baskets, window boxes, rock gardens, xeriscape, and drought-tolerant gardens
- Seeds germinate in 10-14 days.
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date, carefully transplanting out after last frost.
- Alternatively, you can direct sow seed after all chance of frost has passed.
- Surface sow and lightly press seeds into soil, as light aids germination.
- Ideal germination temperature is 70-85 F.
- Plants prefer full sun.
- Drought tolerant and also tolerant of poor soil.
- Requires well-drained soil.
- Deadhead to encourage continued blooming.
PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Generally pest-free, portulaca is sometimes prone to rot if planted in poorly drained, excessively soggy soil.
- Seeds are extremely small and contained within larger seed capsules.
- Carefully pick the capsules and bring inside to process.
- Break seeds free of their capsules in an area free of wind and store in a cool, dry, dark place.
