Mexican Purslane
Portulaca mexicana
Portulaca mexicana is a low-growing succulent plant native to numerous states across Mexico. First described …
Perennial Purslane (Portulaca perennis)
Portulaca perennis: Perennial Purslane of South America
Distributed across the diverse landscapes of Argentina, Bolivia, and southern Peru, Portulaca perennis exhibits remarkable ecological resilience. From the valleys of Tarija to the province of Catamarca, this plant adapts to various altitudes and environmental conditions throughout South America.
As its scientific name suggests, this member of the Portulacaceae family is characterized by its perennial life cycle. This enduring nature allows it to establish stable populations across the varied terrains of the Andean and sub-Andean regions.
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 perennis (Perennial Purslane)
Morphology
The specific epithet of the plant itself reveals its long-lasting biological nature, distinguishing it from several strictly annual congeners. The essential physiological modifications to support life in the mountain range include:
- Vigorous and perennial root system, designed to support photosynthesizing structures over multiple seasons.
- Thick branches and leaves aimed at the continuous accumulation of water reserves.
Interesting facts
Botanist R. E. Fries was responsible for the initial scientific description of Portulaca perennis.
Unlike many of its widely cultivated annual relatives, this wild species is notable for its persistent, year-round growth habit in its native range.
Geography of distribution
- Argentina
- Bolivia
- Peru
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- Catalogue of Life
Technical Information
Taxon Synonyms: Portulaca arequipaensis
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 …