Sesuvium portulacastrum
American sea purslane
A vigorous, fleshy, trailing succulent-like evergreen perennial with smooth reddish-green stems that branch out along the ground and oval leaves which turn red to yellow as they mature. Small but showy pink flowers appear throughout the year, opening for a few hours each day. These are followed by small, shiny black seeds contained in small pods. Salt, flood and drought tolerant. Acts as an important sand stabilizer in coastal areas
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Red | Pink | Green Red Yellow | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Red | Pink | Green Red Yellow | |
| Autumn | Green Red | Pink | Green Red Yellow | Black |
| Winter | Green Red | Pink | Green Red Yellow |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Spreading branched, Trailing
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Southern Hemisphere
How to grow
Cultivation
Very easy to grow in sandy soil in full sun. Ideal for coastal gardens and will tolerate both drought and flooding. Grow in pots and containers or a hanging basket as a trailing plant
Propagation
Propagate by seed in spring or cuttings in late summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to slugs and snails
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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