Mexican Purslane
Portulaca mexicana
Portulaca mexicana is a low-growing succulent plant native to numerous states across Mexico. First described …
Small purslane (Portulaca pusilla)
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Portulaca pusilla: Botanical Data and Distribution Range
Growing naturally in the northern regions of South America, Portulaca pusilla adds to the rich botanical diversity of the Portulacaceae family. It was first scientifically documented by the renowned botanist Carl Sigismund Kunth. This species is found across various departments and states in Venezuela and Colombia.
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 pusilla (Small purslane)
Morphology
The specific epithet pusilla translates to very small or tiny, perfectly describing the overall growth habit of this plant. Like other related species, it relies on somewhat fleshy tissues for essential moisture retention. Its compact physical structure allows it to occupy specialized microhabitats within its native range.
Interesting facts
This species has a surprisingly widespread distribution across several key areas, including the Amazonas and Bolívar states in Venezuela, as well as Guainía and Guaviare in Colombia. Its presence across these distinct geographical boundaries highlights its adaptability to the diverse ecological zones of South America.
Geography of distribution
- Venezuela
- Colombia
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
- Tropicos
See also
Red-Stemmed Purslane
Portulaca rubricaulis
An annual succulent herb characterized by distinctive reddish stems and solitary yellow flowers, found across …
Extremely Hairy Purslane
Portulaca hirsutissima
A succulent plant endemic to Brazil, characterized by its prominent hairy morphological traits and described …
Giulietti's Purslane
Portulaca giuliettiae
A rare succulent plant species in the purslane family, naturally endemic to the Bahia region …