Climate matters. This page is a practical baseline. Confirm cultivar, local frost/heat conditions, mature size and regional restrictions before planting.
Portulaca — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Portulaca grandiflora |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 7–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 21.1–26.7 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 50–70 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 15.2–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 10.2–20.3 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 2–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Scatter seed on the surface of sandy or gritty soil and press lightly — do not cover seed, as light is needed for germination. Portulaca is one of the most drought- and heat-tolerant annuals available, thriving in poor, dry soil where other flowers fail. Blooms open in full sun and close at night or in cloudy weather; modern varieties stay open longer. Self-sows readily in warm climates.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0