Scientific Name
Portulaca molokiniensis Hobdy
Common Name(s)
'Ihi
Scientific Classification
Family: Portulacaceae
Subfamily: Portulacarioideae
Genus: Portulaca
Origin
Portulaca molokiniensis is native to Hawaii. It occurs near the seaside on the arid islets of Molokini and Pu'ukoa'e and at Kanhio Bay on Kaho'olawe off the west coast of Maui. This species grows in sand and loose volcanic scree on steep slopes.
Description
Portulaca molokiniensis is a unique succulent with rounded, pale green leaves that are closely spaced in four rows, towards the tips of its upright, corky stems. It can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall and branch profusely at or just below the soil line, forming a clump up to 20 inches (50 cm) wide. The stems can reach a diameter of up to 0.8 inches (2 cm). The leaves are thick and fleshy, measuring up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.
The small, cup-shaped, yellow flowers appear in clusters at the end of stout stalks that rise above the foliage.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Portulacas tolerate many types of soil but prefer sandy, well-drained soil and thrive in full sunlight. These plants are excellent for withstanding high heat and drought, and they will seed and spread themselves very well. Some control methods may be needed to prevent Portulacas from becoming invasive in unwanted areas. However, these wonderful plants do spread easily and very well.
These succulents require minimal attention while growing and flowering. However, you should remove them from the garden before Portulacas can set seeds, as they may take over the garden. You don't need to water often for proper Portulaca care. The cylindrical foliage of the plants retains moisture very well. Thus, regular watering is not required. When they are watered, just a light watering will do, as their root zone is shallow.
The seeds of Portulacas should be sown on the soil surface following the last frost of spring. Ideally, these plants should be grown in a sunny part of the garden. If starting Portulaca indoors, then start about one and a half months in advance.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Portulaca.
Links
- Back to genus Portulaca
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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