Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
SELECTION CHARACTERISTICS
There are no true varieties, only different strains named for their ap-
pearance—'Grüner' (green), 'Gelber Breitblättriger' (yellow wide-leaved), etc. Yellow-leaved
purslanes are softer but also likelier to rot. They have a delicate flavor, whereas green varieties often
taste much better, with a strong, intense flavor.
DISEASES AND PESTS
Arche Noah has yet to observe any problems with diseases or pests.
CULTIVATION HISTORY
Wild purslane, native to Europe, is a weed in gardens in warm regions. The
cultivated form (ssp.
sativa
) differs from the species in that it grows upright rather than staying close
to the ground. Its egg-shaped, fleshy leaves, along with its practically invisible flowers, are eaten raw
or lightly steamed. The slightly sour flavor comes from omega-3-hepta-linoleic acid. The plant has
also been described as a medicinal, with supposed anticarcinogenic, antibacterial, and antiviral effects.
Common purslane has thick, succulent leaves.
MINER'S LETTUCE
Claytonia perfoliata
The wild version of miner's lettuce is found along the North American Pacific coast from Mexico to
southern Canada. Miner's lettuce is grown for seed just like purslane; it is an annual plant and a strict
self-pollinator. The only difference is that it is sown in mid to late summer (early autumn to midwinter
in an unheated greenhouse). When growing in the summer, miner's lettuce needs shade. The ideal tem-
perature for germination is 54°F (12°C), but it then grows best at 40-46°F (4-8°C). Like purslane,
there are no bred varieties but rather strains. Sow in autumn when growing for seed. Flower stalks start
to grow in early to mid spring. Miner's lettuce is very hardy, taking temperatures as low as −4°F
(−20°C) when covered in snow. The seed harvest can be challenging because green seeds often fall out
before ripening, and within a few days the entire seed yield can be gone. For this reason, cut plants at
soil level when the first seeds ripen. Hang plants upside down to dry. Later, tap out seeds and winnow
them with sieves. Home gardeners may find it convenient that seeds fall out on their own. Self-sown
volunteer plants can then be harvested in late summer.
