Trianthema Portulacastrum, commonly known as Desert Horse Purslane or Carpet Weed, is characterized by its distinctive growth habit and physical features. It is an annual herb that typically forms a prostrate mat or clump, spreading along the ground.
General Characteristics
This plant's stems can grow up to a meter long and exhibit a color range from green to red. They are notably fleshy and generally hairless, with the exception of small lines of hairs found near the points where the leaves attach.
Key Features of Trianthema Portulacastrum
To provide a clear overview, the primary characteristics are summarized below:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Annual herb |
| Growth Habit | Forms a prostrate mat or clump |
| Stem Length | Up to a meter long |
| Stem Color | Green to red |
| Stem Texture | Fleshy; mostly hairless with small lines of hairs near leaves |
| Leaves | Small, round or oval blades, up to 4 centimeters long |
| Leaf Petioles | Short |
| Flowers | Solitary, found in leaf axils |
Detailed Description
- Growth Form: Trianthema Portulacastrum is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle within one growing season. Its growth habit is distinctive, spreading outwards to form a prostrate mat close to the ground, or occasionally growing as a dense clump.
- Stems: The stems are a prominent feature, capable of reaching lengths of up to one meter. Their coloration can vary from vibrant green to reddish hues. A key characteristic is their fleshy texture, indicating a capacity to retain water, and their smooth, hairless surface, broken only by subtle lines of fine hairs precisely where the leaves emerge.
- Leaves: The leaves are relatively small, with blades that are either round or oval in shape and typically measure up to 4 centimeters in length. These blades are attached to the main stem by short petioles, which are the stalks connecting the leaf blade to the stem.
- Flowers: The flowers of Trianthema Portulacastrum are inconspicuous and grow solitarily. Each flower emerges from a leaf axil, which is the angle between the upper side of a leaf and the stem from which it grows.
