First year in growing purslane. I have planted a couple of plants in a cement block and they are doing good.
In the Mediterranean, it is used in soups and salads and has lots of potential health benefits. It lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels because of its omega-3 fatty acids. In Mexico it is often used in omelets, stews and many other recipes. For a very intense flavor, the wilder varieties are much tastier. Some say it has a lemony taste, or is similar to watercress, but I’ve also heard people compare it to the taste of spinach.
Portulaca oleracea, the green and wildest variety, has tiny yellow flowers. It is a serious weed to most farmers and gardeners, they want to get rid of it, but it’s very difficult to do. It reseeds itself when you disturb the plants. The best way is just to eat it. Portulaca sativa is golden purslane and it’s often found in herb gardens and is the favorite among chefs.
Ornamental purslanes you see hanging in baskets at the nurseries. There are dozens of varieties with bright colorful blooms and the benefit of being a drought-friendly plant. Ornamental purslane produces flowers all summer and into fall.