Mexican Purslane
Portulaca mexicana
Portulaca mexicana is a low-growing succulent plant native to numerous states across Mexico. First described …
Nicaraguan Purslane (Portulaca nicaraguensis)
Neotropical Purslane
Portulaca nicaraguensis (Neotropical Purslane): Taxonomy and Description
The neotropical purslane, scientifically known as Portulaca nicaraguensis, stands out as a remarkable semisucculent member of the Portulacaceae family. Originally classified as a subspecies of Portulaca oleracea, it was later recognized as a distinct species. This reclassification was primarily based on its diploid nature, which contrasts with the hexaploid chromosome count of its close relatives.
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 nicaraguensis (Nicaraguan Purslane)
Morphology
A key distinguishing morphological feature of Portulaca nicaraguensis lies in its seeds. Unlike closely related purslane species, the seeds of this plant are characteristically covered in a distinctive bluish wax. As a semisucculent, it exhibits fleshy tissues adapted for water storage in its native environments.
Interesting facts
The species maintains a widespread presence across a diverse range of regions, spanning from the central and southeastern United States through Central America. Its native range also extends into the West Indies and Macaronesia, highlighting its adaptability to various neotropical and subtropical climates.
Geography of distribution
- United States
- Mexico
- Nicaragua
Sources
- POWO (Plants of the World Online)
- WFO (World Flora Online)
- GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
Technical Information
Taxon Synonyms: Portulaca oleracea subsp. nicaraguensis
See also
Red-Stemmed Purslane
Portulaca rubricaulis
An annual succulent herb characterized by distinctive reddish stems and solitary yellow flowers, found across …
Round-Leaved Purslane
Portulaca rotundifolia
An annual succulent plant species of the Portulacaceae family, native to South America.
Hairy Hawaiian Purslane
Portulaca villosa
Portulaca villosa, commonly known as hairy purslane or 'ihi, is a rare, prostrate succulent endemic …