Common purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Common purslane on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Portulacaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Common purslane
Portulaca oleracea, commonly known as purslane, is a low-growing annual succulent plant, valued for its fleshy leaves and reddish stems. It produces small yellow flowers that open with the sun. It's an excellent choice for ground cover, rock gardens, or hanging baskets, adding a rustic and edible touch.
Native range
Europe, Asia, and North Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry completely between waterings, as it tolerates drought well. It prefers well-drained, sandy, or slightly clayey soils. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Common purslane
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing/reddish leaves, drooping stems. Could be over/underwatering.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water lightly. If wet, let dry, improve drainage.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage rotting its fleshy roots. Also total shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's very resilient. With sun and good drainage, it recovers quickly.