Purslane - Your Garden Hidden Gem
Purslane: The Powerhouse Plant Your Garden Needs
If you’ve ever pulled up purslane (Portulaca oleracea) from your garden, assuming it’s just another pesky weed, you might want to reconsider. This resilient little succulent thrives in Australian conditions and is far more valuable than it gets credit for. Purslane is not just a wild edible packed with omega-3s—it’s a multifunctional plant that can enhance soil health, support biodiversity, and even contribute to sustainable gardening and regenerative farming practices.
Whether you're cultivating a no-dig vegetable patch, working towards a more self-sustaining food forest, or simply looking to improve soil health, this unassuming plant has a lot to offer. The best part? It thrives in Australia’s tough conditions with minimal effort. So next time you spot purslane creeping along your garden bed, think twice before pulling it out—you might just find it’s one of your most valuable garden companions.
Living Mulch and Soil Protector
One of purslane’s most underrated benefits is its ability to act as a natural ground cover. Its sprawling growth helps to shield soil from the harsh Australian sun, preventing moisture loss and reducing erosion. If you’re working with dry, sandy soils, purslane can be a game-changer—its roots create a natural network that helps retain water and improve soil structure. By allowing it to grow as a living mulch, you can keep your soil hydrated and aerated, reducing the need for synthetic inputs.
A Nutrient-Rich Green Manure
Purslane is a nutrient accumulator, meaning it draws up minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron from deep in the soil. Instead of discarding it, you can chop it up and use it as a green manure, returning those nutrients to the earth and enriching your garden beds. This regenerative approach supports soil fertility and reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Edible and Medicinal Superfood
Beyond its role in soil and ecosystem health, purslane is one of the most nutritious wild greens you can eat. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and an impressive amount of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids—making it a valuable addition to your diet, particularly in regions where leafy greens struggle in summer heat.
Flavour and Culinary Uses
Purslane has a slightly tart, lemony flavour with a crisp, succulent texture, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It works well raw in salads, adding a refreshing crunch. You can also sauté it with garlic and olive oil, use it as a topping for tacos, blend it into smoothies for a nutrient boost, or even pickle it for a tangy treat. In Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines, purslane is often incorporated into stews and egg dishes, adding both texture and a mild citrusy note.
A Key Player in Regenerative Farming
Regenerative farming and permaculture principles emphasize working with nature rather than against it. Purslane embodies this philosophy—it’s a plant that restores rather than depletes. By integrating purslane into your garden or farm, you create a more resilient, self-sustaining system that nurtures soil health, conserves water, and supports biodiversity—all without the need for synthetic interventions.
Purslane Chimichurri
1 cup purslane leaves
1 cup Italian parsley leaves
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
3 cloves garlic - minced
1 small jalapeno pepper - seeded if desired –OR– 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar - or to taste
Salt and freshly ground black pepper - to taste
