Moss rose (Portulaca pilosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Moss rose on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Portulacaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Moss rose
Portulaca pilosa, commonly known as Pink purslane or Kiss-me-quick, is a small annual or short-lived perennial succulent native to the Americas. It is characterized by its prostrate or ascending, fleshy, reddish stems and cylindrical, succulent leaves. It produces small, bright pink or fuchsia flowers that open with the sun, making it ideal for rock gardens, path edges, or as ground cover in dry, sunny gardens.
Native range
Tropical Americas, from the southern United States to South America and the Caribbean
Care tips
This purslane thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours daily to bloom profusely. Watering should be sparse, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very susceptible to overwatering and root rot. It prefers very well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils, with low organic matter content. A common mistake is planting it in shade or in heavy, moist soils, which will result in poor growth and sparse flowering.
How to save a dying Moss rose
- Warning signs
- Soft, wilted, or yellowing leaves; limp stems or rot at the base. 🌿
- First aid
- Remove withered flowers and leaves. Check substrate: if wet, stop watering and improve drainage. If dry, water lightly.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its worst enemy, causing root and stem rot. Also, total lack of light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. With good drainage and sun, it recovers. If rotten, cut and propagate healthy cuttings.