Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
4 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial in warm climates
Native To
Europe and Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Commonly known as purslane, it is a succulent, edible plant that serves as a ground cover. It is valued for its ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions and its nutritional benefits.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in full sun.
- Mist cuttings lightly every few days to maintain humidity.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry out.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, diluted fertilizer during growing season.
- Pinch back leggy growth to promote bushiness.
- Transplant seedlings after the last frost for outdoor planting.
Pro Tip
Use sandy or gritty soil to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging 🌱
- Provide full sun for best flowering and growth
- Water sparingly to avoid overwatering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not expose to heavy shade, as it reduces flowering
- Avoid using heavy clay soil that retains too much moisture
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Common Purslane questions
What zones can Common Purslane grow in?
Common Purslane is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Common Purslane deer resistant?
Yes — Common Purslane is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Common Purslane bloom?
Common Purslane typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Common Purslane need full sun?
Common Purslane does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Common Purslane drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Common Purslane handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Common Purslane with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
