Long forgotten in our gardens, this little plant is making a strong comeback. Often considered a weed, its qualities should not be underestimated. We are, of course, talking about purslane, this lovely succulent plant with generous growth and a delicate flavor.

Do you think it’s a wild plant without any particular interest? Think again; it could very well turn out to be an unexpected ally for your garden as well as for your recipes!

Purslane: Origins and Reasons for Its Comeback

This annual plant belongs to the Portulacaceae family. Common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) has spreading stems, often reddish, and thick, spatula-shaped leaves. Originating from Asia, this robust plant has gradually spread to all warm or temperate regions around the world.

In recent years, purslane has regained popularity thanks to organic producers and chefs.

Why this resurgence of interest? Simply put, it adds variety and freshness to our diets while being extremely easy to grow. This makes it a practical and attractive solution.

A Surprisingly Rapid Growth for Effective Ground Cover

Have you noticed how quickly purslane grows in your garden? Indeed, this plant has impressive characteristics:

  • Germination takes place in only 3 to 7 days.
  • Each plant can produce up to 10,000 seeds, ensuring rapid multiplication.
  • It grows well in a variety of soil types and withstands dry spells effectively.

This rapid growth allows for the quick establishment of a dense and protective ground cover.

By covering the soil, purslane provides immediate benefits to your garden. This cover protects the earth from erosion, retains moisture, and even helps to improve the soil’s quality by making it more crumbly.

An Effective Natural Weed Suppressor

If you’re tired of spending time on weeds, adopt purslane! By creating a dense natural mat, it naturally prevents other plants from growing.

This plant works for you, saving time. Less intervention, less weeding: in short, more time to enjoy your garden!

An Surprising Vegetable Rich in Essential Nutrients

Purslane delights gourmets with its slightly tangy flavor reminiscent of sorrel but milder. Its nutritional properties are also noteworthy:

  • An excellent plant source of omega-3s.
  • Rich in vitamins: vitamin C and vitamin E.
  • Contains significant amounts of magnesium and potassium.
  • Has valuable antioxidants that are beneficial for daily health!

Easily Growing Purslane at Home

Prepare a loose soil, sow lightly in spaced rows, cover the seeds lightly, and keep the soil slightly moist initially.

Repeat these sowings every 3 to 4 weeks during the growing season to enjoy a prolonged harvest. The same plant will also spontaneously regrow year after year.

Its maintenance is minimal:

  • Water only during prolonged dry spells.
  • No special fertilization is needed if your soil is naturally fertile.
  • Minimal protection against pests and diseases.

To harvest: pick young shoots for salads or trim the stem tips to encourage branching. Preservation can be done in the refrigerator or through lacto-fermentation.

A Plant Valued in Permaculture

Do you practice responsible gardening? Purslane is perfect as a companion plant! At the foot of tomatoes, eggplants, or peppers, it regulates moisture and deters weeds while attracting pollinators.

It is also very drought-resistant, making it a smart choice in gardens with limited water resources.

Wild or Cultivated Purslane, What to Choose?

Among the varieties, we distinguish:

  • Common purslane: wild, with small leaves and reddish stems.
  • Golden purslane: cultivated, with broad leaves and a mild taste.
  • Green purslane: the most productive, offering large, flavorful leaves.

All these varieties are edible. Just make sure to avoid plants that have grown in polluted or chemically treated areas.

Some Cautions Before Eating Purslane

Rich in oxalic acid, purslane can pose issues for those with kidney stones. If this is your case, consume it in moderation. Also, be sure to properly identify purslane if foraging for wild plants.

Have you already tried growing purslane in your garden or using it in the kitchen? What was your favorite recipe? Have you noticed its effectiveness against weeds? Share your experience by leaving a comment below!