Portulaca, Double
75 in stock
Quick Overview
Portulaca, Double
The seed of Portulacas is incredibly small, yet it is relatively easy to grow the plant from seed. Portulacas do not transplant easily, so seed should be planted where the plants are intended to grow. Because the seed is so small it is recommended to mix the seed with sand and then broadcast it in the growing area. Seed should be covered with only a dusting of soil. The seed takes a long time to germinate – sometimes as much as 21 days. The seed should be started once the danger of frost has passed. Blossoms will begin about late June to early July and will continue until the first frost. The plant must have full sun, but does well in many different soil conditions.
| Type | Spacing | Planting Depth | Days to Germination | Blossoms |
| Annual | 4 in. | 1/8 in. | 21+ | 30-45 |
Portulaca, Double
Portulaca is an annual member of the Purslane family that is indigenous to the tropical regions of the world. It is also known as the Moss Rose. It is one of the few ornamental plants that can be used to stabilize a sandy bank. Portulacas have been a part of American gardens since the 1700’s. In his 1851 book, The Flower Garden, Joseph Breck said of the plant, “Every person who has had any experience in the garden is too well acquainted with the weed Purslane, or Pursly, and would gladly see an extermination, not only of that plant, but all its kindred. It is indeed a troublesome weed; but no one should be condemned because he happens to have bad relations, nor should Portulaca splendens, although a splendid Purslane. In speaking of it we leave off the Purslane, and call it the Splendid Portulaca, for, were its family connections generally known, we should fear it might not receive the attention it deserves; for, truly, it is a great acquisition to the flower garden, and no plant presents a more brilliant show than this, when planted in masses.”
