Pink Purslane

(Updated: October 10, 2022)

Description

Pink purslane (Portulaca pilosa) is a summer annual weed that can reach 8 inches in height. The leaves are thick and fleshy, arranged alternately on the stem, and low and spreading along the ground. Leaves are usually 1 inch long, and rounded with a slight point at the end. The flowers are bright pink, and have five petals. The plant blooms in late spring and early fall. Pink purslane is usually found in dry, sandy areas.

Cultural Control

Perennial broadleaf turf weeds are capable of living more than two years. They thrive in weak, thin turf; golf fairways and roughs; home lawns; playfields; and industrial grounds. Proper turf maintenance is the key to control of this weed. First, select adapted turfgrass cultivars for your area and then properly fertilize, mow, and water to encourage dense growth.

Species Data

  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • summer annual weed
  • GROWTH HABIT
  • LEAFLET NUMBER
    • one
  • LEAF MARGIN
    • smooth
  • LEAF / LEAFLET SHAPE
    • linear/oblong
  • LEAF WIDTH
    • <1⁄2 inch
  • LEAF ARRANGEMENT
    • alternate
  • FLOWER COLOR
Pink purslane growth habit.
Figure 1. Pink purslane growth habit.
Pink purslane growth habit.
Figure 2. Pink purslane growth habit.
Pink purslane growth habit.
Figure 3. Pink purslane growth habit.
Pink purslane growth habit.
Figure 4. Pink purslane growth habit.
Pink purslane flower color.
Figure 5. Pink purslane flower color.
Pink purslane flower color.
Figure 6. Pink purslane flower color.
Pink purslane.
Figure 7. Pink purslane.

This Extension publication can also be viewed at: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/pink-purslane