Perennial Portulaca ? it does survive ! Portulaca , also bed as moss rise or purslane , is typically grown as an annual in zones two to nine due to the hoarfrost . However , it has been observed that these plants often throw seeds and have a propensity to come back as the conditions warm up . So , while they are technically grown as annuals in these zones , there is a possibility of them reseed and becoming perennial - like .
In zone 10 to 11 , Portulaca is have a go at it to be a true perennial . This means that it can come through and fly high in these warm climates year after yr without require to be replanted . Being a perennial in these zones allows for a longer lifespan and the chance to love the beauty of Portulaca for multiple growing seasons .
It ’s important to note that Portulaca is a succulent flora , meaning it is adapted to desiccated conditions and can store water in its sarcoid leaves and stem . This trait makes it well - fit for dry and blistering climate , which are often found in zones 10 to 11 . The power to hold up these conditions contributes to Portulaca ’s success as a perennial in these regions .
Now , permit ’s dive a bit rich into the growth habits of Portulaca . As an annual , Portulaca completes its life history cycle within a single produce season . It typically germinates from seed , arise , bloom , produces seeds , and then dies back as the atmospheric condition cools down or frost solidification in . However , during this outgrowth , Portulaca drops seeds into the soil , which can then germinate and grow new plants when conditions are favorable .
This self - seeding behaviour is one reason why Portulaca can sometimes come back as a perennial in geographical zone where it is primarily grown as an annual . The dropped seed may lie dormant during the wintertime months and then sprout when temperature lift in the follow maturate time of year . This can give the show of Portulaca returning as a perennial , even though it is technically a Modern generation of plants .
In my personal experience , I have seen Portulaca reseed itself and coming back twelvemonth after year in my garden . I live in a geographical zone where Portulaca is considered an yearly , but I often chance new plants popping up in unexpected place . This self - seeding deportment can be both a blessing and a curse , as Portulaca can be quite prolific and may require some management to foreclose it from spreading too aggressively .
To summarise , while Portulaca is primarily develop as an annual in zones two to nine due to hoar , it has the ability to drop seeds and reseed itself , potentially giving the appearance of a perennial - similar behavior . In zones 10 to 11 , Portulaca is indeed considered a straight perennial . Its ability to thrive in desiccate conditions and store water in its succulent leave and stems make it well - suited for these warm climates . Whether you enjoy Portulaca as an yearly or a repeated , its vibrant flowers and low - alimony nature make it a popular choice for many gardener .
Caroline Bates
