Water-Wise Gardening

California-Friendly Plant: Rock Purslane

Calandrinia spectabilis, also known as Rock Purslane, is a regular favorite among California-Friendly gardeners, and now is the perfect time to add it to your yard. This plant forms a small shrub of soft gray-green leaves that serve as the canvas to stunning magenta flowers that bloom all year round in the mild Southern California climate.

Calandrinia thrives in heat, withstands drought and tolerates poor soil. Water this plant deeply twice a month spring through fall, then only once a month or less during the winter months.

Pruning out the dead flower stalks will promote repeat blooms and an attractive compact shape. Calandirina can be planted any time of the year, but winter and spring are best, so make a point to add it to your New Year’s resolutions.