Common Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

Common Purslane

Portulaca oleracea

Juicy leaves hold crisp, tart flavor—sun-warmed succulent snack. Edible annual herb; common name: purslane.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun exposure for optimal succulent growth and flowering; tolerates partial shade with reduced bloom production
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Watering Allow top 1 cm of soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant but produces juicier foliage with consistent moisture
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; frost-sensitive and dies back when temperatures drop below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, obovate bright green leaves arranged alternately on stems
  • Flower: Small five-petaled yellow blooms opening only in full sun
  • Stem: Succulent reddish-green trailing stems forming dense low mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Light diluted feed once monthly. Use balanced organic feed to support foliage growth without excessive stem elongation

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without burning delicate roots
Pruning
  • Pinch back stem tips to encourage bushier, denser growth
  • Remove spent flowers to extend the blooming period through late summer
  • Trim overgrown mats to maintain neat garden edges and prevent spreading into unwanted areas
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no adverse effects reported

Humans: No known toxicity; edible as a leafy green herb

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible leafy herb, ornamental ground cover, drought-tolerant garden filler