Weed of the Week

September 4th 2006

Common Purslane: Porulaca oleracea L.

 

Characteristics:

Family: Portulacaceae (Purslane Family)

Origin: Europe

Description:

• Fleshy, succulent type of plant
• Plants are prostrate forming dense mats
• Annual, reproduces by seeds (prolific seed production)
• Used as a potherb

Stems:

• Stems radiate outward in excess of 12 inches
• Smooth and Reddish or tan in color

Flowers:

• Small and yellow appear at leaf axils (where the leaf joins the stem)
• Bright yellow in color, with 5 petals
• Blooms throughout the growing season
• Seeds are tiny and black and can remain dormant in the soil for years before germinating

Leaves:

• Fleshy and teardrop shaped, narrow at the junction with the stem, then broader at the tip

Location:

    Purslane in not a noxious weed;  it is a commons, nuisance weed that will grow anywhere.  It is difficult to control because of the prolific production of seeds, which persist in the soil for years.  According to some sources, purslane can be eaten raw or cooked and is high in vitamin C.  (References can be found by searching  "Purslane".)

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