How to Grow Moss Rose
Portulaca grandiflora
Moss Rose is a low-growing succulent annual that thrives in hot, dry conditions and poor soil. Sow seed on the surface after the last frost, or buy transplants — it hates root disturbance, so direct sow where it will grow. Plant in the sunniest spot available; flowers only open in full sun and close at night. Water sparingly once established. Avoid rich, moist soil which produces leafy plants with few blooms. Clear after first frost.
In your Leaftide garden - Hardiness
- Tender
- Season
- Warm Season
- Spacing
- 20 cm
- Height
- 20 cm
- Sow depth
- 0.1 cm
- Min. soil temperature
- 21°C+
- Start from
- Seed
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 10°C and soil has warmed to at least 21°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light balanced feed at planting; avoid high nitrogen which promotes leaves over flowers.
- Flowers open only in full sun and close at night or on cloudy days. This is normal — not a sign of stress. Plants thrive on neglect in poor, dry soil; rich moist soil leads to lush foliage but fewer flowers.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 21°C+
- Germination temperature
- 21–27°C
Pet Safety
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 20 cm |
| Row spacing | 25 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.1 cm |
| Mature height | 20 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 21°C |
| Germination temperature | 21–27°C |
| Base growth temperature | 10°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Moss Rose?
- Plant Moss Rose 20cm apart with 25cm between rows.
- When does Moss Rose flower?
- Moss Rose typically flowers approximately 50 days after transplanting.
- Is Moss Rose frost hardy?
- Moss Rose is classified as Tender.