Portulaca ‘Happy Hour Banana’

Portulaca grandiflora ‘Happy Hour Banana’

Characteristics

Culture

‘Happy Hour Banana’ Portulaca has high-impact color with its vivid bright yellow, semi-double blooms. The plant forms mounds with narrow, green leaves and uniform flowering.  Flowers will close at night and during cloudy days. As long as ‘Happy Hour Banana’ Portulaca is exposed to the sun and can avoid wet feet, you should be good to go. Does not appear to be a favored snack for deer.  It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. Considered to be drought-tolerant, Portulaca makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in poor soils, is able to handle environmental salt, and is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments.

Noteworthy Characteristics

The ‘Happy Hour’ series was bred for reduced photoperiod requirement so it will bloom earlier. This variety has a fuller habit than most moss roses and has large, double blooms.  It features showy yellow frilly flowers with hot pink streaks at the ends of the stems and blooms from late spring to early fall. Its tiny succulent needle-like leaves remain green in color throughout the season.  This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and should not require much pruning, except when necessary, such as to remove dieback.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for aphids. Crown rot may occur in poorly-drained soils.

Garden Uses

Good for poor dry soils where many other plants struggle. Edging or ground cover for beds, rock gardens or along walks. Containers, hanging baskets. Sprawl over stone walls.