Previous species

Next Species

Home Page

Common Purslane
Scientific Name: Portulaca oleracea L.
Synonym: Portulaca neglecta, Portulaca retusa
Family: Portulacaceae

Show Larger Picture Portulaca oleracea, Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 2: 40.

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: All zones USDA: 7-11 Heat Tolerance: Excellent Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: Most of the world, some authorities think it originated from Persia, but it seems to have existed in the US before Columbus's arrival to the New World Growth Habits: Annual herbaceous succulent, purplish red prostrate stems, 3 to 12 inches tall (7.5-30 cm), 1 to 2.5 feet spread (30-75 cm) Watering Needs: Occasional to moderate watering Propagation: Seeds, stem segments

Cultural Practices:
Sow 1 inch apart (2.5 cm), one foot between rows (30 cm). Fertilize once a month. Harvest the stems, 1 to 2 inches from the base (2.5-5 cm)

Blooming Habits:
Yellow flowers