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Purslane or Golden purslane
Portulaca oleracea var. sativa

Family: Portulacaceae


What it is like

A sprawling annual plant. It grows to 30 cm high. The thick leaves occur in rings or rosettes. They are succulent and bright green. This is the cultivated selection.

There are about 200 Portulaca species. They are mostly in the tropics and subtropics. It is a cultivated food plant.


Where it is found

It can be grown in tropical and temperate places. It is damaged by frost.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Balkans, Macedonia


How it is used for food

The young leaves are picked and can be cooked like spinach.

It is cultivated.

Edible parts

Leaves, seeds


How it is grown

Seed are sown where plants are to grow. Plants should be about 15 cm apart.


Its other names

Local names

Synonyms