Wingpod purslane

Wingpod purslane Portulaca umbraticola

What is the plant

Portulaca umbraticola, also known as the wingpod purslane, is a perennial succulent in the genus of flowering plants 'Portulaca.' It is known for attracting bees, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Portulaca umbraticola, commonly known as wingpod purslane, is a small, succulent annual or short-lived perennial with fleshy foliage and colourful blooms that vary in colour, from tangerine oranges to hot reds and pinks. It’s particularly suited to growing from seed then planting out in pots and containers, or in colourful summer and autumn bedding schemes. It’ll thrive in the hottest, brightest sun and is renowned for its drought tolerance. Invasive in North America.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

18°C - 23°C

Hardiness zone

5 - 10

Difficulty

Easy

Hibernation

Cold Period

Water
You do not need to water often for proper Portulaca care. The cylindrical foliage of the plants retains moisture very well. Thus, regular watering is not needed. When they are watered, just a light watering will do, as their root zone is very shallow.
Sunlight
Partial sun generally means less than six and more than four hours of sun per day. Plants for partial sun will do well in a location where they receive a break from the sun each day. They like the sun but will not tolerate a full day of it and need at least some shade each day.
Fertilizer
Use slow-release fertilizer for container plants. Avoid using too much fertilizer.

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Soil
Use a well-draining indoor potting mix with perlite to help with drainage.
Pruning
It is important because damaged leaves and stems can actually be an energy drain on your plant. By removing those dead parts, you're taking some of that work off your plant’s plate and allowing it to divert its energy into healthy leaves and new growth!
Propagation
You can propagate it by using seeds or cuttings. Choose good branches, cut off 5-7cm (2-3 inches), and plant them into loose sandy soil. Keep it warm, and the new plants will start growing soon.

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Check your plant’s health

Temperature
Purslane cannot tolerate cold and prefers germination temperatures of 70°F or more. Wait to place in field until days are long and average temperatures are above 70°F during the day and 50°F at night, preferably warmer. Inside, average room temperatures from 65°F/18.3°C - 75°F/23.8°C will suffice.
Container
Use a ceramic porous pot with a good drainage.
Popularity
426 people already have this plant 147 people have added this plant to their wishlists

Common pests
Aphids and spider mites can attack your sun-loving plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to fight them.
Frequent diseases
There are no known diseases specifically affecting Portulaca. Never overwater this drought-resistant plant, though.
Botanist’s tips
This is a plant to locate in the sunniest places of your garden; it will thrive there.

Remove dead flowers for the plant to bloom more!