double Mossrose Purslane

Description:

Moss rose is a prostrate, trailing, multi-branched annual with semisucculent stems and leaves. It reaches about 6 in (15 cm) tall with a spread of 12 in (30.5 cm). The reddish stems and the bright green leaves are thick and soft and juicy. The leaves are cylindrical, about an inch long, and pointed on the tips. The roselike flowers are about an inch across and come in bright colors like rose pink, red, yellow, white, and orange. Some are striped or spotted with contrasting colors. The flowers are borne on the stem tips, and they open only during bright sunlight, closing at night and on cloudy days. There are several strains, cultivars and mixes available. Many have double flowers and some are up to 3 in (7.6 cm) across. 'Sundance' has double flowers to 2 in (5 cm) across. The Sundial series cultivars bloom in cooler and cloudier weather with double flowers in a wide variety of colors. 'Afternoon Delight' stays open longer in the afternoon.

Habitat:

Originally from the hot, dry plains of southern Brazil, Uruguay and northern Argentina, moss rose is cultivated throughout the world as a favorite garden annual. It has escaped cultivation in a few areas, including central Florida.

Notes:

double flowers, it is widely grown in temperate climates as an ornamental plant for annual bedding or as a container plant. It requires ample sunlight and well-drained soils. It requires almost no attention and spreads itself very easy. In places with old architecture it can grow between the stones of the road or sidewalk. Seeds are often sold as mixtures, such as Double Flowering Mixture