Cuban Purslane: A Rare Non-Native Annual Worth Knowing About
Meet Cuban purslane (Portulaca biloba), a little-known member of the purslane family that’s as intriguing as it is uncommon. This annual forb might not be on every gardener’s radar, but its story is worth telling—especially if you’re someone who appreciates botanical rarities or is curious about unusual plants that have found their way into American gardens.
What is Cuban Purslane?
Cuban purslane is a non-native annual forb that belongs to the diverse Portulaca genus. Like other members of its family, it’s a vascular plant without significant woody tissue, meaning it stays soft and herbaceous throughout its growing season. As an annual, it completes its entire life cycle—from seed to flower to seed again—in just one year.
The plant earned its Cuban moniker likely due to its Caribbean origins, though it has since established itself in parts of the southeastern United States through natural reproduction without human intervention.
Where You’ll Find It (Or Won’t)
Here’s where things get interesting—and rare. Cuban purslane currently grows in only one U.S. state: Georgia. Its extremely limited distribution has earned it a Global Conservation Status of S1S2, which indicates it’s very rare and potentially vulnerable.
This rarity makes Cuban purslane something of a botanical unicorn. While many non-native plants spread aggressively once introduced, this species has remained confined to a very small geographic area, making it more of a curiosity than a common garden plant.
Should You Grow Cuban Purslane?
The short answer is: proceed with extreme caution, and only if you can source it responsibly. Given its rarity status, Cuban purslane should never be collected from the wild. If you’re interested in growing this unusual plant, you’d need to ensure any seeds or plants come from legitimate, ethical sources that don’t impact wild populations.
That said, there are several reasons why most gardeners might want to consider native alternatives instead:
- Its rarity makes it nearly impossible to find through normal gardening channels
- Limited information exists about its specific growing requirements
- As a non-native species, it doesn’t provide the same ecological benefits as native plants
- Native alternatives offer similar aesthetic appeal with better environmental value
Native Alternatives to Consider
Instead of seeking out Cuban purslane, consider these native alternatives that offer similar characteristics:
- Common purslane relatives: While most Portulaca species are non-native, look for native succulents with similar growing habits
- Native annual wildflowers: Choose region-appropriate annuals that support local pollinators
- Native ground covers: Select low-growing native plants that provide similar garden functions
The Bottom Line
Cuban purslane represents an interesting case study in plant rarity and conservation. While it’s not considered invasive, its extremely limited distribution and uncertain ecological role make it a plant best appreciated from an academic rather than practical gardening perspective.
If you’re drawn to unusual plants, consider channeling that enthusiasm toward native species that are both interesting and beneficial to your local ecosystem. Your garden—and local wildlife—will thank you for choosing plants that truly belong in your area.
Remember, the most sustainable gardens are built with plants that have evolved alongside local conditions and wildlife. While Cuban purslane might be a botanical curiosity, native plants are the real garden treasures waiting to be discovered.
