Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Purslane and relatives
PORTULACACEAE
The most important cultivated plants of this family are purslane (
Portulaca oleracea
), also
known as pigweed, and miner's lettuce (
Claytonia perfoliata
), also known as winter purslane
or Indian lettuce.
PURSLANE
Portulaca oleracea
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
• 15 to 20 healthy, well-formed plants
POLLINATION NOTES
Purslane is a cleistogamous self-pollinator, meaning pollination takes place in
the bud before the flower opens. The corona of the flower is often not developed. Though it is some-
times reported in green strains, there is no real danger of cross-pollination between multiple varieties.
Purslane seeds
GROWING FOR SEED
Sow purslane for seed in late spring, after the last frost; however, seeds can be
sown until midautumn, with many gardeners sowing over and over again during this stretch for a non-
stop supply of purslane for the table. Sow directly outdoors in rows or broadcast. Seeds germinate better
with light, so cover only lightly with soil. Thin to one plant every 6-8 in. (15-20 cm). Leaves can be
harvested three to four weeks after sowing, and plants can be harvested two or three times.
HARVEST
The shiny, black seeds fall easily from seed capsules that have turned brown. Place a paper
bag underneath the stalks, and tap or strip seeds into the bag. Seeds ripen over the course of two to three
weeks, so harvest regularly during this period.
