Purslane

Catalogue Type

Weed Catalogue

Scientific Name

Portulaca oleracea L.

Family

Portulacaceae

Distinguishing Characters

one of the world’s worst weeds; prefers fertile
soils; growth is slow until about 14 d; pig fodder and
consumed by humans

Photo of Weed

Description

Found in: upland Establishment method: DS >> WS
Growth habit: succulent branched spreading herb; up
to 0.5 m Moisture: dry to moist Competitiveness: low to moderate Seed contaminant: unknown
Cultural control: flooding; repeated shallow cultivation
though re-roots readily Reported resistance: multiple to photosystem II inhibitor
+ ureas/amides (USA) Life cycle: annual Seed wt: 0.07
Method(s) of reproduction: seeds > stem fragments
Maturity time: flowers in 1 mo, maturity in 2 to 4 mo
Dormancy: low or none Flower: yellow
Elevation: up to 2,700 m Light: sunny to partly shaded