Portulaca grandiflora, commonly called Jump up & kiss me is native to South America and the Caribbean and grows well where there is constant sunshine, although it is grown as an ornamental annual around the world.
The saucer-shaped single and double-petalled flowers in a range of colours open daily in full sun. The singles are bright, five-petalled flowers of pinks, reds, yellows, whites, apricots and purples, while the doubles are reds, yellows, pinks, whites and purples.
Portulaca is a small tufted plant that grows to about 6 inches in height, while some varieties spread rapidly approximately 12 inches across. They have a centre of bright yellow stamens. Some popular varieties are Cloud beater and Flore pleno – both are double flowers.
Portulaca is ideal for window boxes or shallow containers, and as ground cover for tall plants in pots, hanging baskets and decorative borders. It needs to be replanted every three months to remain attractive.
It can be grown from seed or cuttings in a sandy soil. Water moderately. Fertilize with Miracle Gro All Purpose Plant Food once a month.
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
