Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Montiaceae

Genus:

Phemeranthus

Species:

Phemeranthus rugospermus

USDA Symbol:

PHRU8

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

15 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun,jul,aug,sep

Bloom Colors:

pink, magenta

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from tuberous roots after fire; found in fire-prone sand prairies and glades.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, nutrient-poor, well-drained soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Thrives in open, sunny habitats with minimal competition.

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require light for germination; surface sow and do not cover.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI