Hot, dry conditions are no match for purslane. This vigorous, low-growing annual flower thrives when the weather heats up and will slowly carpet a bed, border, or container with pretty succulent foliage and bright yellow-, orange-, or rose-, or white-colored blooms.  Purslane and its close cousin portulaca will add tons of color with a minimum of care from you. The mat-like plants grow 4 to 8 inches tall so they are ideal for hanging baskets, window boxes, or as a colorful groundcover tucked amid stones in a garden pathway. The cheerful, chalice-like blooms close up at night, but pop back open as soon as the sun peeks over the horizon. Purslane is also a favorite plant for hungry butterflies. It's deer resistant, too. In frost-free regions (Zones 10 and 11) purslane is treated as a tender perennial.

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Plant purslane in full sun and well-drained soil. If you are growing purslane in a container or basket use a commercial potting soil mix. Feed with a little slow-release granular fertilizer at planting time, but after that additional feeding is not necessary. Water whenever the soil feels dry to the touch, but don't overdo it. Purslane would rather be a bit dry than flooded.

Purslane is not intended for human or animal consumption.