Buy 2 or more packets of mix and match seeds and get a free packet of seeds.

Purslane is native to Indian sub-continent and now distributed widely across the continents but actually as a wild weed.

There exist varieties of puslane with variation in leaf size, thickness, and leaf arrangement and pigment distribution.

This hardy herb plant requires relatively less water and soil nutrients and grows well sunny sunny climates.

The plant grows up to 12-15 cm in height as a low-lying spread.

Purslane is widely grown in many Asian and European regions as a staple leafy vegetable. Its leaves appear thick, contain mucilaginous substance, and have a slightly sour and salty taste. Leaves and tender stems are edible. In addition to succulent stems and leaves, its yellow flower buds are also favored, especially in salads.

Purslane seeds, appear like black tea powder granules, are often used to make some herbal drinks.

Health benefits of Purslane

This wonderful green leafy vegetable is very low in calories (just 16 kcal/100g) and fats; nonetheless, it is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Fresh leaves contain surprisingly more omega-3 fatty acids (a-linolenic acid) than any other leafy vegetable plant. 100 grams of fresh purslane leaves provide about 350 mg of alpha-linolenic acid. Research studies show that consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and help prevent the development of ADHD, autism, and other developmental differences in children.

It is an excellent source of Vitamin A, (1320 IU/100 g, provides 44% of RDA) one of the highest among green leafy vegetables. Vitamin A is a known powerful natural antioxidant and an essential vitamin for vision. it is also required to maintain healthy mucusa and skin.

Consumption of natural vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin A is known to help to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.

Purslane is also a rich source of vitamin C, and some B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine and carotenoids, as well as dietary minerals, such as iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and manganese.

Furthermore, present in purslane are two types of betalain alkaloid pigments, the reddish beta-cyanins and the yellow beta-xanthins. Both pigment types are potent anti-oxidants and have been found to have anti-mutagenic properties in laboratory studies.

GROWING INFORMATION

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Portulaca oleracea sativa

CULTURE:

Plant after last frost, as purslane is sensitive to hard frost.

DIRECT SEEDING:

For baby leaf: Sow 1-2 seeds/in. in rows at least 2" apart. For full-size production: Sow about 1/2" apart, 1/4" deep. Thin to 4-6" apart.

TRANSPLANTING:

Sow 3-4 seeds per 1" cell-type container or pot in midspring. Cover with 1/8" of soil. Thin to 2 plants per cell. After last frost, transplant to the garden about 8" apart, using care not to damage the roots.

HARVEST:

Pick as needed to within 2" of their bases. New stems and leaves will re-grow continually for several weeks.

DISEASE:

Prevent disease with crop rotation and sanitation.

Will be shipped from Manhasset, New York. From a store called Flower Shop Inc.

Florist and greenhouse situated in Long Island, New York. Been in business for 24 years and counting.