A Comprehensive Guide to Portulaca ‘ColorBlast Double Orange’
Portulaca ‘ColorBlast Double Orange’, also known as Moss Rose or Purslane, is a vibrant and hardy annual that belongs to the Portulacaceae family. This eye-catching plant is a standout in the ColorBlast Series, bred by Westhoff Flowers. With its ability to thrive in full sun and its remarkable drought and heat tolerance, ColorBlast Double Orange Portulaca is a versatile addition to gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.
Botanical Background
Portulaca ‘ColorBlast Double Orange’ is a member of the Portulacaceae family, which includes a variety of succulent plants known for their ability to thrive in arid conditions. This family is characterized by its fleshy leaves and bright, showy flowers. Native to South America, Portulaca has adapted well to various climates around the world, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking for resilient and colorful plants.
Description
ColorBlast Double Orange Portulaca is an herbaceous annual that grows to a height of 6 inches and spreads about 20 inches. It features double orange cup-shaped flowers with gold overtones that bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant has small, succulent, oval leaves that remain green throughout the season, providing a lush backdrop for its vibrant blooms. Its relatively fine texture and ground-hugging growth habit make it a distinctive addition to any garden.
Ornamental Features
- Flowers: Showy, double orange blooms with gold overtones.
- Foliage: Small, succulent, oval leaves that stay green all season.
- Wildlife Attraction: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Maintenance: Low maintenance with no need for deadheading.
- Habitat: Ground-hugging habit perfect for beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
Care Instructions
Sunlight: Portulaca ‘ColorBlast Double Orange’ thrives in full sun. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to promote optimal blooming.
Watering: This plant prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil: It is not particular about soil type or pH but thrives best in well-drained soil. It is highly tolerant of poor soils and urban pollution, making it suitable for city gardens.
Temperature: While it can behave as an annual in colder climates, it performs best in warmer regions where it can be left outdoors year-round.
Maintenance: This plant is relatively low maintenance. Trimming off spent flower heads can encourage more blooms late into the season. Mulching around the root zone can help conserve soil moisture and reduce watering needs.
Propagation
ColorBlast Double Orange Portulaca can be propagated by cuttings. However, as a cultivated variety, it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation. Always check local regulations before attempting to propagate this plant.
Steps for Propagation by Cuttings:
- Select Healthy Stems: Choose healthy, non-flowering stems from the parent plant.
- Cut the Stems: Using clean, sharp scissors or a knife, cut 4-6 inch long stems just below a node.
- Prepare the Cuttings: Remove the lower leaves from the cuttings, leaving the top few leaves intact.
- Plant the Cuttings: Insert the cuttings into a pot filled with well-draining soil mix. Water lightly to settle the soil around the cuttings.
- Provide Ideal Conditions: Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- Monitor Growth: Roots should develop within a few weeks. Once the cuttings have established roots, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Conclusion
Portulaca ‘ColorBlast Double Orange’ is a versatile and vibrant plant that brings a splash of color and life to any garden setting. Its ability to thrive in full sun and tolerate drought makes it an ideal choice for low-water gardens and xeriscape applications. With minimal maintenance requirements and a robust growing habit, this plant is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether used in hanging baskets, patio containers, or garden beds, ColorBlast Double Orange Portulaca is sure to brighten up your outdoor space with its cheerful blooms.
