Description
💧 Watering
Like most succulents, it prefers to keep its “feet” dry. Water only when the soil has completely dried out. It is incredibly drought-tolerant and handles the peak of Maltese summer heat brilliantly. Be careful not to overwater, especially during humid spells, as stagnant moisture around its shallow roots will quickly cause crown or root rot.
☀️ Light
This plant is a complete sun worshiper. It demands full, direct sunlight (at least 6–8 hours a day). A fascinating quirk of the Moss Rose is that its blooms will physically close up at night and remain closed on heavily overcast days. To get the best out of the ‘Happy Hour’ vivid colors, put it in your most exposed, sun-drenched spot.
🍃 Foliage / Growth
Features low, mounded, and well-branched red-tinted stems covered in fleshy, needle-like green leaves. The ‘Happy Hour’ series is highly valued by growers because it stays a bit more compact and uniform than wild trailing purslane, preventing it from looking messy or breaking easily in the wind.
🪴 Potting Mix
Thrives in poor, lean, and sandy soils. Avoid rich, heavy composts which will encourage the plant to grow lots of green leaves instead of flowers. For pots or hanging baskets, a cactus and succulent mix or standard potting soil heavily amended with extra perlite and sand is perfect.
🌿 Fertilizer
Very little feeding is required. Give it a light dose of balanced, liquid fertilizer once at the start of summer. Over-fertilizing will result in lush green foliage but a disappointing lack of those colorful, rose-like blooms.
🐕🐈 Pet Safety**
Portulaca grandiflora is non-toxic to dogs and cats, making it a very safe and worry-free choice for low-lying borders, patio edging, or hanging containers where pets might explore.
🌬️ Air Purifying
While it doesn’t have the massive air-filtering leaves of indoor tropicals, its outdoor ecological contribution is stellar. It is a fantastic magnet for local pollinators—bees and butterflies are highly attracted to its vibrant, nectar-filled blooms throughout the summer.
*Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The Price is per one individual plant.
**This plant is labeled as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. However, be advised that the consumption of any plant material may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset for dogs and cats. Sherries will not be held accountable to any symptom. If you believe that your animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, please contact a vet immediately.
