Plant care guide

Table Rose

Portulaca grandiflora

Rose-like blooms in full sun with minimal care.

Table Rose (Portulaca grandiflora)Plant care guide

Care guide

1234
  • 1Bright direct light
  • 2Bright indirect light
  • 3Medium light
  • 4Low light
Table Rose grows best in zones 1 and 2.

Watering requirements

Water every 3–5 days, letting the soil dry to the right level between waterings.

Sunlight requirements

Needs bright light, including some direct sun. Keep it near a bright window or in an open, sunny spot.

Humidity requirements

Dry air is fine. It copes well with air-conditioned rooms.

Pet-friendly plant?

Not verified. Keep it out of reach of pets and check with your vet if unsure.

Care level

Easy

Best setting

Outdoor

Low Maintenance

About Table Rose

A low, spreading succulent with fleshy leaves and bright, rose-like flowers that open in sunshine. It thrives in heat and needs little water, suited to sunny borders, planters and terraces.

Rose-like blooms that open in sunshine; thrives in heat with little water.

Where it works best

  • Sunny terraces & balconies
  • Planters & borders

How to care for Table Rose

Sunlight

Needs full, direct sun — flowers open only in bright light and close in shade or on dull days.

Water

Water lightly every 3–5 days in hot weather and let the soil dry between waterings. Overwatering causes quick rot.

Humidity & temperature

Loves heat and dry air. It tolerates drought but not waterlogged soil, especially during the monsoon.

Soil & feeding

Plant in sandy, fast-draining soil. It needs very little feeding — a light dose of fertiliser once a month during growth is enough.

Pruning

Pinch tips to keep plants compact and remove spent flowers.

Propagation

Stem cuttings root very easily in dry, sandy soil, and the plant often self-seeds.

Common problems

  • Symptom

    Few or closed flowers

    Cause

    Not enough sun.

  • Symptom

    Rotting stems

    Cause

    Too much water or poor drainage.

  • Symptom

    Leggy growth

    Cause

    Too little light; pinch tips to encourage branching.

Frequently asked questions

Does it come back every year?

In warm climates it grows readily and often self-seeds. Replant from cuttings if plants become leggy.

Can I grow it in a pot?

Yes — a shallow pot or hanging basket with plenty of drainage works well on a sunny terrace or balcony.

Is it safe for pets and children?

Keep Table Rose out of reach of pets and small children. Many ornamental plants can irritate the mouth or stomach if chewed. If a pet or child eats part of the plant, contact a vet or doctor.

Care guidance is general advice for Indian indoor and outdoor conditions. For plants in a Bonita maintenance programme, our team looks after watering and feeding for you.

Table Rose

Enquire

Planning a plant palette for your space?

We can put together a full plant plan for your campus, office or lobby.

Photo courtesy: Table Rose by Joydeep, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.