Portulaca oleracea
(Common Purslane)
Portulaca oleracea, John Martin Reservoir State Park, Bent Co. 9989
Portulaca oleracea, John Martin Reservoir State Park, Bent Co. 9985
Portulaca oleracea, John Martin Reservoir State Park, Bent Co. 9994
| Scientific Name | Portulaca oleracea | USDA PLANTS Symbol | POOL |
| Common Name | Common Purslane, Little Hogweed | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 20422 |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae (Pink) (formerly Portulacacea) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Plains and foothills (3500 to 8500 ft.); various soils in disturbed areas; widespread globally. Plant: Annual herb with succulent, prostrate or ascending stems radiating and forming a sprawling mat up to 2 ft. wide; stems are fleshy, smooth and usually red. Leaves: Alternate leaves, crowded and appearing nearly opposite or whorled, especially near branch tips; flat, fleshy blades ovate to spatulate, 1 to 1-3/4 inches long. Inflorescence: Small solitary or clustered flowers at the ends of branches; flowers with 4 to 6 (usually 5) yellow petals notched at the tip, 1/8 to 1/4-inch across; 6 to 20 yellow stamens; 2 or 4 green sepals. Bloom Period: June to September. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Minnesota Wildflowers and SEINet. |
BONAP Distribution Map
Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Introduced |
© Tom Lebsack 2024
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains