Sea purslane
Sesuvium portulacastrum · Aizoaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant sea purslane: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Sea Purslane
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Form
- Creeping herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Persistent, fleshy and succulent
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn, pink or white flowers
- Mature size
- 10 to 15 cm tall, up to 60 cm spread
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender (from 0°C), warm temperate or subtropical climate
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical coastal regions
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant of saline soils
Care
Light
Sea purslane requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Place it in full sun or partial shade. Indoors, position it near a bright south or west-facing window.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during active growth periods. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, as this plant tolerates drought well. In winter, reduce watering significantly.
Soil
Light, well-draining substrate is essential to prevent root rot. Prefer a succulent plant mix enriched with sand or clay pellets. The plant appreciates saline environments and tolerates neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer once or twice monthly during the growing season. For potted plants, reduce fertilizer compared to non-succulent plants. Excessive feeding promotes growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch stems regularly to encourage compact, branching growth. Remove dead or damaged parts. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain an attractive shape.
Diseases and pests
Watch for root rot if conditions are too humid. Indoors, spider mites can be problematic in dry air. Good drainage and adequate ventilation prevent most fungal issues.
Did you know?
Sea purslane is a halophyte, meaning it thrives in very saline environments, even facing sea spray. In its natural tropical coastal habitats, it plays an important ecological role stabilizing dunes and retaining sediments. Its fleshy succulent leaves store water and minerals, allowing it to survive the extreme conditions of the seaside.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.