**Portulaca: A Vibrant Annual for Any Garden**
Portulaca, commonly known as "Can't Die," is an annual herb that belongs to the purslane family. It goes by several names, including Half-Branch Portulaca, Long Xi Peony, Pine Needle Peony, Big Flower Purslane, and Sunflower. This plant is a popular choice among gardeners due to its easy care, vibrant blooms, and resilience.
Growing up to 10–15 cm in height, Portulaca features succulent stems covered with fine hairs. Its leaves are fleshy and arranged alternately or in scattered patterns, typically around 2.5 cm long. The flowers are either solitary or clustered at the top of the branches, with 1–4 blossoms per stem. Each flower can reach 2.5–4 cm in diameter and comes in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, red, pink, purple, orange, and many mixed hues. They can be single or double-petaled, adding visual interest to any garden.
Native to South America, particularly Brazil, Portulaca has been widely cultivated across China and other regions. It thrives in warm conditions but is not frost-tolerant. As a sun-loving plant, it requires full sunlight, especially during midday. In low-light conditions, the flowers may remain closed or fail to open fully. However, recent varieties have been developed to bloom all day long, reducing the need for constant direct sunlight.
This plant is drought-resistant and adaptable to various soil types. While it prefers well-drained, loose, and fertile sandy soil, it can thrive in less-than-ideal conditions. It grows quickly and is easy to propagate through seeds or cuttings. Sowing seeds in mid-April is common, with temperatures above 20°C being ideal. The seedbed should be finely prepared, watered, and then lightly covered with a thin layer of fine soil. After sowing, avoid watering until the seeds germinate. In dry or windy weather, using a curtain or plastic cover can help retain moisture.
Once the seedlings reach 3–4 cm in height, they can be transplanted into spacing of 10 cm x 10 cm. Flowering usually begins about two months after planting. Large seedlings can also be transplanted bare-root. For cutting propagation, simply take healthy shoots during the growing season and plant them directly in the garden or in pots.
When growing in containers, use old potting soil rich in humus, and add a mix of sandy loam and a small amount of decomposed organic fertilizer. Ensure proper disinfection and place the plants in sunny areas. Avoid keeping the soil too wet—water only when necessary.
Portulaca produces pods that mature at different times, and the seeds tend to split easily. Harvest the fruits when they turn brown, and dry them thoroughly before storing. With its colorful blooms and low maintenance, Portulaca is a perfect addition to any garden or landscape.
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