Portulaca molokiniensis, commonly known as the Hawaiian Portulaca, Money Tree, or Coin Succulent, is a fascinating perennial succulent from the Portulacaceae family. Endemic to Hawaii, specifically to the small crescent-shaped islet of Molokini, this plant has captivated gardeners worldwide with its unique appearance and adaptability.
The plant’s natural habitat is characterized by rocky, coastal environments with limited rainfall, which has shaped its drought-tolerant nature. Despite its Hawaiian origins, it shares similarities with succulents from arid regions of Africa, leading to some confusion about its native range.
Propagation of the Hawaiian Portulaca is typically achieved through stem cuttings or occasionally seeds, making it relatively easy to cultivate. Its growth habit is distinctive, forming a compact, mounding shape without a primary above-ground stem. Instead, the plant develops from a caudex, a thickened stem base that serves as a water storage organ.
The leaves of Portulaca molokiniensis are its most striking feature. They are small, fleshy, and dark green, arranged in a spiral pattern that gives the plant its coin-like appearance and “Money Tree” nickname. Each leaf is oval to oblong, measuring about 0.5-1 inch long, with a glossy surface that reflects light, enhancing its ornamental value.
The Hawaiian Portulaca is a perennial succulent endemic to Hawaii, specifically Molokini islet. It grows from a caudex, forming a compact mound of tightly arranged leaves. The plant’s adaptation to its native rocky, coastal habitat has resulted in excellent drought tolerance and preference for well-draining soil.
Its distinctive leaf arrangement and appearance have earned it the common names “Money Tree” and “Coin Succulent.” The plant’s compact size, typically reaching 6-12 inches in height and width, makes it an ideal choice for container gardening, rock gardens, and as an indoor ornamental plant.
Propagation is primarily through stem cuttings, which root readily, allowing for easy cultivation and sharing among enthusiasts. While seed propagation is possible, it is less common due to the plant’s limited natural range and specific growing conditions.
Portulaca molokiniensis is native exclusively to Molokini, a crescent-shaped islet between Maui and Kahoolawe in Hawaii. Its natural habitat is characterized by:
In cultivation, the Hawaiian Portulaca thrives in conditions that mimic its native environment:
While drought-tolerant, the plant is sensitive to overwatering and cold temperatures. It cannot withstand frost and should be protected or moved indoors when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
The Hawaiian Portulaca exhibits several unique morphological characteristics:
The Hawaiian Portulaca’s compact size, unique leaf arrangement, and drought-tolerance make it an excellent choice for succulent enthusiasts and collectors. Its ability to thrive in small containers and tolerate indoor conditions has contributed to its popularity as a low-maintenance houseplant.
Round-Leaf Portulaca requires a well-draining cultivation substrate. An ideal mix consists of peat, coarse sand or washed coal slag combined with a small amount of garden soil. The pH should be adjusted to 6.0-6.5, creating a slightly acidic environment optimal for growth.
During summer heatwaves exceeding 35°C, growth may be stunted. Provide cooling by shading with black netting and misting the surrounding area to create a temperature-appropriate yet relatively dry microclimate.
In winter, maintain greenhouse temperatures above 10°C. Temperatures below 5°C can cause cold damage and severely impact survival. When temperatures drop below 8°C in late autumn or early winter, promptly move plants to a well-lit indoor location. For overwintering, maintain temperatures between 8-10°C for optimal plant health.
Round-Leaf Portulaca thrives in bright light but can tolerate some shade. Provide a sunny location with partial shade protection. Avoid direct intense sunlight, especially after prolonged spring rains and during peak summer hours (5-6 hours before and after noon), as this can scorch new tender growth.
For greenhouse-grown potted plants, when temperatures exceed 33°C, mist once daily. Despite its drought tolerance, maintain slightly moist soil conditions. Occasional overwatering or over-fertilizing is generally tolerated without causing root rot. In winter, mist foliage and surroundings to maintain relative humidity above 50%.
Round-Leaf Portulaca responds well to fertilization. Incorporate fermented organic fertilizer or slow-release compound fertilizer into the growing medium. During the active growing season, apply a solution of 0.2% urea and 0.1% dipotassium phosphate 2-3 times monthly. Alternatively, use a balanced 20-10-20 fertilizer at 200-250 ppm combined with calcium nitrate. Cease fertilization when temperatures drop below 15°C to prevent root damage in cooler conditions.
Repot every two years in late spring to early summer. Use a slightly acidic, well-draining mix of peat, coarse sand or perlite, and slag with a small amount of garden soil and slow-release fertilizer. Choose deeper pots to accommodate the large tubers and extensive root system. Improve drainage by adding a layer of stones or tiles at the pot base.
When planting, leave part of the tuber exposed above the soil surface. For enhanced aesthetics, top-dress with a layer of decorative gravel or small stones.
Prevent sunburn damage to tender leaves by gradually acclimating plants to outdoor conditions, especially after prolonged indoor periods or rainy weather. Sunburned leaves may lose chlorophyll (turning white) or develop necrotic brown/black patches.
To prevent winter damage, maintain greenhouse temperatures no lower than 10°C and keep soil slightly dry. Temperatures below 5°C combined with wet soil can cause leaf wilting and tuber rot.
Seed propagation is rarely used for Round-Leaf Portulaca due to its unisexual flowers, which require hand pollination for seed production. Additionally, low germination rates limit large-scale production via seeds.
Tissue culture propagation utilizes callus induction and shoot regeneration techniques. Explants are cultured in vitro to produce callus, which then differentiates into shoots and roots to form complete plants. Callus induction from stem tissue shows higher success rates (up to 88%) compared to other plant parts. Research indicates that mature leaf tissue near the main vein is particularly effective for callus formation.
In spring, when outdoor temperatures reach 18°C, divide large plants by separating tubers at weak junction points. Apply sulfur powder or wood ash to cut surfaces before replanting. Plant divided sections with tuber tips 1.5-2 cm below soil level.
Large individual tubers can be cut into smaller pieces, each containing 2-3 dormant buds. Allow cut surfaces to callus before planting in slightly moist fine sand. Once new growth emerges, pot up individually.
Cuttings may consist of a single small leaf, a leaf axis with two leaves, or a single leaf axis. Cuttings with both leaf axis and leaves root more quickly and reliably, often developing larger tubers.
For single leaf cuttings, plant in a mixture of river sand and zeolite. Small tuberous stems with roots typically form at the leaf base within 10-14 days. While these can develop into small plants after 2-3 months, success rates are generally lower than other methods.
For stem cuttings (with or without leaves), use a substrate of fine sand or a 3:1:1 mix of peat, perlite, and river sand. Insert cuttings 1/3 to 1/2 of their length into the medium, leaving only leaves exposed. Maintain temperatures of 25-27°C and keep the substrate slightly moist but not waterlogged. Mist cuttings 1-2 times daily as needed.
As roots develop, a small tuberous structure forms at the base. Some young cuttings may wither due to heat stress or improper watering, but the tuber often survives. Mature leaf cuttings typically remain vigorous. While some tubers may produce new growth in the first year, most will develop robust shoots the following spring.
In poorly ventilated, low-light conditions, Round-Leaf Portulaca is susceptible to scale insect infestations.
Prevention: During peak nymph emergence, apply a 1:1000 dilution of 20% permethrin wettable powder for effective control.
Characterized by round, gray-brown or yellow-brown leaf spots with darker edges. This fungal disease thrives in hot, humid conditions.
Control: Remove and destroy affected leaves promptly. At first signs of infection, apply 50% mancozeb (1:600 dilution) or 40% carbendazim (1:500 dilution) every 10 days for 3-4 applications.
Caused by overwatering and poor soil aeration, which creates conditions favorable for pathogenic fungi.
Prevention: Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. If necessary, treat with one of the following fungicides:
Ornamental: Round-Leaf Portulaca’s attractive growth habit and thick, oval leaves resembling strings of copper coins make it highly prized for decorative purposes.
Air Purification: When grown indoors, Round-Leaf Portulaca can help absorb electromagnetic radiation from electronic devices and remove airborne pollutants such as formaldehyde, improving indoor air quality.
Peggie was once a high school mathematics teacher, but she set aside her chalkboard and textbooks to follow her lifelong passion for flowers. After years of dedication and learning, she not only established a thriving flower shop but also founded this blog, “Flowers Library”. If you have any questions or wish to learn more about flowers, feel free to contact Peggie.
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