Portulaca oleracea
Porcelane
Purslane
Additional information
| Plant family | |
|---|---|
| Area | Provence Verte |
| Flower colour | yellow |
| Flower size | 9 mm |
| Flowering months | July, August, September |
| Leaf type | Succulent |
| Height | 20-45 cm |
Description
A fleshy, trailing plant known since Antiquity. It spreads like a mat over the ground, stems and leaves often red-tinged.
It is commonly used in India and China as a vegetable. Portulaca oleracea var. sativa is grown as a crop, France being the largest producer and consumer in Europe.
Flowers
Tiny, yellow flowers.
Leaves
Succulent fleshy, water-retaining leaves. Spoon-shaped, fleshy, opposite or alternate on the stem.
Fruits Seeds
Capsule: round, numerous black seeds, 4-7 mm.
Edible
Whole plant: it has a slightly sour, juicy, salty flavour.
Medical
Whole plant: rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron. A diuretic, cooling herb that lowers fever and clears toxins; effective against many bacterial infections.
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