Purslane
Also known as
Common purslane, Little hogweed, Verdolaga, Garden purslane, Pourpier
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Portulaca oleracea, commonly called purslane, is a prostrate, mat-forming annual succulent with smooth, reddish, branching stems and fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves clustered at the nodes. Small, five-petaled yellow flowers open only in bright sun and quickly mature into seed capsules, allowing the plant to self-sow readily. Exceptionally drought- and heat-tolerant, it thrives in poor, sandy, or compacted soils and is widespread as a cosmopolitan weed of disturbed ground. It is also cultivated as an edible green: the crisp leaves and stems have a refreshing, lemony, slightly salty flavor and are notable for high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), vitamins, and minerals. Purslane uses efficient C4 photosynthesis and can shift toward CAM-like behavior under severe drought, conserving water. In gardens and containers it makes a tough, low-care groundcover and edging plant, spilling attractively over walls and between paving stones, while its flowers attract small pollinators. Because it seeds freely, timely harvesting or deadheading helps keep it in check.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Purslane
Water
Water deeply, then allow at least the top 1–2 inches of the medium to dry completely before watering again. In containers during hot weather, this may be every 5–10 days; in-ground plants often need water only during prolonged drought. Always use free-draining soil and empty saucers promptly. Morning watering is best. Err on the dry side—overwatering leads to stem collapse, root rot, and bland, watery growth.
Light
Provide full sun: 6–8+ hours of direct light daily for dense growth and abundant flowers. Purslane tolerates reflected heat and bright, hot exposures that stress many herbs. In partial shade it survives but stretches and blooms sparsely. Indoors, place at a south-facing window or under strong grow lights for 12–14 hours per day; rotate containers periodically to keep growth even and prevent leaning.
Nutrients
Purslane thrives in lean soils and typically needs little to no fertilizer. If container-grown or repeatedly harvested, mix a small amount of compost into the potting medium or apply a balanced, low‑nitrogen fertilizer at 25–50% strength once monthly during active growth. Avoid heavy feeding, which can make plants lax and may raise tissue nitrate levels. Flush pots periodically with plain water to prevent fertilizer salt buildup.
Temperature
A warm-season annual, purslane thrives at 70–95°F (21–35°C) and tolerates extreme heat. It is not frost hardy; growth stalls below about 55°F (13°C) and plants are damaged by temperatures near freezing. Keep night minimums above 45–50°F (7–10°C). Indoors, average room temperatures are fine when paired with excellent light and airflow. Avoid cold, waterlogged soils, which are the most common cause of decline.
