How to Grow Moss Rose (Portulaca): Heat-Loving, Drought-Proof Groundcover

How to Grow Moss Rose (Portulaca)

Moss Rose (Portulaca grandiflora), also called Eleven O’Clock, Purslane, or Sun Plant, is a tough, succulent annual from South America that thrives in scorching heat and drought. It forms a low, 4–6 inch mat of fleshy leaves studded with brilliant, rose-like flowers in yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and white from early summer on. Ideal for rock gardens, borders, containers, and hanging baskets—forgiving if you forget to water.

Edible note: Seeds are edible raw or cooked; can be ground into recipes.

Propagation

Sow seeds directly or indoors 6–8 weeks early. Press onto soil surface—light required for germination (10–15 days). Transplant after frost, spacing 10 inches apart. Established plants root easily from cuttings.

How to Grow Moss Rose

• Light: Full sun (essential).
• Soil: Poor to average, sandy/loamy, sharply drained.
• Water: Rarely needed in ground; allow containers to dry between waterings.
• Fertilizer: High-nitrogen at planting; high-phosphorus before bloom. No further feeding needed.
• Maintenance: Deadhead for more blooms. Prune for density. Ensure air flow to prevent fungal issues. Frost-tender—cover if cold threatens.

Bloom Time

Summer.

Pests & Diseases

Aphids, gnats, snails/slugs possible. Stem/root rot in wet soil—plant in well-drained sites or raised beds. Fungicide in humid weather if needed.