Portulaca 'Ihi'

Upstanding stems beset on all sides with rounded leaves that spiral their way upward. Each leaf is between 2cm and 5cm and there are four sets of them that grow to form the sensational, sculptural stems.

Radiating from the base, the stems gradually increase as the plant matures into a little shrub. They are much faster than a regular succulents so you can enjoy more and sooner!

Little, yellow flowers open in clusters at the top the stems at any time of the year.

This beauty isn’t often available and is easy care – a good choice for the forgetful waterer. A Hawaiian native, it is also known as Hawaiian Portulacca.

SIZE (HxW): 20-40cm x 20-45cm. If grown outdoors in well drained soil and a frost free area they will grow a little bigger (Sub Tropical and Tropical climates).

I SEE THE LIGHT: Bright, indirect light is ideal. You should be able to read during the day in their position in the room without turning on a light. If you only have artificial light, they will need about eight hours a day. They won’t flower unless they have good light.

I NEED A DRINK: Water fairly freely spring/summer and less in winter – every other week. Allow the top soil of the pot to dry out before watering again, they will forgive you if you miss a watering or two, as they store some moisture in their foliage. You are more likely to kill them with kindness as over watering can lead to rotting and you will lose your beautiful stems.

I WILL SURVIVE: Plant into a good quality cactus and succulent potting mix to ensure good drainage. Ideally use a pot with drainage holes to ensure they don’t end up sitting in water, if you don’t have drainage holes you will need to be restrained with your watering. Use a diluted liquid fertiliser spring/summer, they aren’t overly hungry.

Keep them clear of cold draughty positions or they will sulk. To encourage more stems pinch the new growth spring/summer. Remove spent flowers to tidy. They would rather be pot bound, so repot gradually and only every few years.