PlantFiles: Montiopsis
Montiopsis sericea

This high Andean herbaceous perennial Portulacaceae reaches a height and width of some 20cm (8”) and has the most amazing silky neon-magenta flowers. It thrives at full sun and with little water, blooming from mid spring to mid summer. . It requires well drained soil.

Montiopsis sericea will bloom the first year grown from seeds, but will considerably increase the amount of flowers from the second year on.

Sowing recommendations: during autumn, in a mix of two parts sharp river sand, two parts compost and one part regular gardening soil. Cover this mix with a layer of sharp river sand, distribute your seeds and gently press them against the soil without covering them. Place your sowing pan either in a cold frame or a cold greenhouse. Pick/transplant the seedlings once they have developed two true leaves.

As other Portulacaceae, Montiopsis sericea requires sun to open its flowers. This little plant will be a great addition to rock gardens, as groundcovers, containers and pots, etc.