Also known as Pink Purslane, Kiss-me-quick, Hairy Pigweed
Shaggy portulaca forms low, sprawling mats adorned with fleshy, cylindrical leaves and prominent tufts of white woolly hairs clustered at each node. Bright magenta to pink flowers open only during the brightest hours of direct sunlight, closing tightly by late afternoon or on overcast days. Highly adapted to arid and disturbed soils, this succulent stores water in its stems to endure intense heat and prolonged drought across the Americas.
ThreatsHerbicide application, severe land development, and aggressive weed competition
HabitatsSandy fields, rocky outcrops, coastal dunes, roadsides, and disturbed ground
Life spanAnnual or short-lived perennial
Classification
OrderCaryophyllales
FamilyPortulacaceae
GenusPortulaca
SpeciesPortulaca pilosa
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
Low
Moderate
High
Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Contains soluble calcium oxalates; toxic to dogs, cats, and livestock if ingested in quantity.
Why it is dangerous
Plant tissues contain concentrated soluble calcium oxalates, which can cause severe salivation, digestive distress, and potential renal complications in pets and livestock.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by its creeping succulent habit, narrow pencil-like leaves, white woolly hairs around the nodes, and small magenta-pink flowers.
What to do
Safe to touch; simply ensure curious pets and foraging livestock do not browse on the foliage.
Responsible observation
Timing blooms: Visit around midday in full sun when the bright pink petals expand completely.
Examining hairs: Look closely at the stem nodes with a hand lens to see the distinctive woolly tufts.
Pet safety: Prevent grazing pets from chewing on dense mats due to oxalate content.
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