Growing Guide: Purslane

Scientific Name Portulaca oleracea
Common Names Purslane, Verdolaga, Duckweed, Little Hogweed
Family Portulacaceae (Purslane Family)
Origin Cosmopolitan; likely native to Asia or the Mediterranean
Plant Type Succulent Edible Herb
Life Cycle Annual (reseeds freely)
Food Forest Layer Groundcover / Herb Layer
Mature Size 4–8 in tall, spreading to 12–18 in wide
Light Full Sun
Water Needs Low; drought-tolerant
Harvest Season Spring through Fall
Time to Harvest 30–40 days from planting
Self-Fertile Yes
Growth Rate Very Fast
Zones USDA Zones 3–11 (grown as annual or self-seeding)
Florida Native Naturalized; widely established
Propagation Seeds, Cuttings
Seasonal Characteristics Warm-season annual; sensitive to frost