Garden Plants Can Be a Nuisance, But Before You Yank Them Out, Consider This: The Hidden Health Benefits of Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

As gardeners, we’re often quick to reach for the weeder when we spot a plant growing where it shouldn’t. We invest time and energy into curating a perfect garden, and unwanted weeds or intruders can throw off the aesthetics or seem like a threat to the health of our desired plants. However, before you pull that “weed” out of your garden or lawn, it’s worth taking a moment to consider: Could this plant actually be beneficial?

One such plant that often gets mistaken for a nuisance is purslane (Portulaca oleracea). Commonly found in gardens, lawns, and even cracks in pavement, purslane is frequently viewed as an unwanted intruder. But before you dismiss it, think again—purslane is packed with health benefits and nutritional value, and it also contributes positively to the ecosystem. In fact, it might just be one of nature’s hidden heroes. Let’s dive into why purslane is worth keeping around and how you can incorporate it into your diet and garden routine.

What is Purslane?