Purslane
Portulaca oleracea
Purslane is a low, succulent leafy green with fleshy leaves and a lemony, slightly salty taste, eaten raw or cooked. It thrives in heat and poor soil and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Photo: Tyler Ekholm · CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Watering
Low
Water when the soil is dry; it tolerates drought.
Soil
Any well-drained soil, including sandy and poor soils.
Temperature and humidity
15–42 °C · Low humidity
Feeding
No feeding needed.
Pruning and propagation
Propagate by seed, stem cuttings
Pinch or cut stem tips regularly for tender growth.
Safe for people in normal food amounts, though high in oxalates. It is listed as toxic to cats and dogs.
Top Cultivation Tips
Sow on the surface in warm weather.
Pick before it flowers for the best taste.
Stem pieces root easily.
It self-seeds; remove plants before they set seed if unwanted.
