Broad leafed Parakeelya, Rock Purslane
Calandrinia balonensis

Family: Montiaceae

What it is like

A small annual succulent herb. It grows 10-30 cm high and spreads 50-100 cm wide. The flower stems sticks upwards and does not have leaves. The leaves are flat and 4-12 cm long. by 1-2 cm wide. They are sword shaped. The flowers are usually pinkish-purple. They have 5 petals. The flowers are 2.5 cm across. The fruit are small cone shaped capsules. The capsule has 3 valves. They have many small seeds.

There are between 50-100 Calandrinia species. It has also been put in the family Portulacaceae.

Where it is found

They are tropical and subtropical plants. It grows in arid parts of Australia. It grows in a range of locations on a variety of soils. It needs well drained soil. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The whole plant is baked and the leaves eaten. The seeds are ground and made into bread.

Edible parts

Seeds, leaves, roots

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Parkilypa

Synonyms

Claytonia balonensis F. v Muell.;