logo: University of Minnesota Extension Gardening Information

Is this plant a weed?

Common Purslane, Portulaca oleracea L.

Found in:

  • Landscape beds
  • Grows well in high light areas and nutrient-rich soils (loam, sandy loam)
  • Survives in compacted soils and drier conditions
  • Does poorly in lawn situations

Characteristics:

  • Low growing, mat-forming annual
  • Stems are purplish-red, thick, fleshy, succulent and hairless
  • Leaves are oblong, smooth, shiny, thick, fleshy and succulent, arise alternately along stem
  • Tiny yellow flowers appear June to Oct.
  • Long, thick taproot with fibrous lateral roots

Plants that look similar:

More information and control options for Common Purslane...

Give us your feedback