Howell's Purslane (Portulaca howellii)

Galapagos Purslane

Portulaca howellii — The Galapagos Purslane

Endemic to the unique ecosystems of the Galapagos Islands, Portulaca howellii forms an integral part of the local flora. This specialized succulent has evolved in isolation, adapting to the volcanic soils and maritime climate of the archipelago. It contributes to the delicate balance of the island habitats, often growing in rocky coastal areas.

Taxonomy

  • ∟ царство Plantae
  • ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
  • ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
  • ∟ Angiosperms
  • ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
  • ∟ eudicots
  • ∟ core eudicots
  • ∟ Superasterids
  • ∟ order Caryophyllales
  • ∟ подотряд / подпорядок Portulacineae
  • ∟ family Portulacaceae (Purslane family)
  • ∟ genus Portulaca (Purslane genus)
  • ∟ species Portulaca howellii (Howell's Purslane)

Living Pulse

Powered by iNaturalist

Morphology

Typical of the genus, it exhibits a low-growing, spreading habit with fleshy, water-storing leaves. The succulent foliage helps the plant endure intense equatorial sun and saline winds. Small, star-shaped flowers open in direct sunlight, attracting local pollinators.

Interesting facts

Because it is restricted to the Galapagos Islands, this species is closely monitored to understand the impact of invasive species and climate change on island endemics. Its geographic isolation has led to a highly specialized genetic profile compared to mainland purslanes.

Geography of distribution

  • Galapagos Islands

Sources

  • POWO (Plants of the World Online)
  • WFO (World Flora Online)
  • GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)

Technical Information

Taxon Synonyms: Portulaca lutea var. howellii

External Databases: GBIF, POWO, Tropicos

See also

Mexican Purslane

Mexican Purslane

Portulaca mexicana

Portulaca mexicana is a low-growing succulent plant native to numerous states across Mexico. First described …

Read more →
Red-Stemmed Purslane

Red-Stemmed Purslane

Portulaca rubricaulis

An annual succulent herb characterized by distinctive reddish stems and solitary yellow flowers, found across …

Read more →