Common Purslane Description

Weed

Common purslane

Scientific Name

Portulaca oleracea

Family

Purslane family (Portulacaceae)

Life Cycle

Summer annual

Reproduction Method

Reproduces by seed

Appearance

Common purslane emerges from a heavy taproot, to develop succulent, smooth, fleshy, stems that are usually purple-red and may root at lower nodes. These many branched stems reach up to 24 inches long and grow in a prostrate fashion to form mats.

Leaves

Common purslane leaves are alternate to sub opposite, oval shaped with the widest point beyond the leaf's middle. Growing up to 1 1/4 inch long, the thick, fleshy leaves are often clustered near the ends of branches. They are smooth and without leaf stalks.

Flowers

The yellow flowers of common purslane are borne individually in the leaf axils or clustered at end of branches. There are five petals. The flowers open in teh sunshine. The fruit is a globular capsule. Flowering occurs in July through September.

Occurrence

Common purslane occurs in rich fertile soils, and can be troublesome in late summer seedings. Once established, common purslane is drought tolerant.

Non Chemical Control

To control common purslane without herbicides, maintain a dense and healthy turf using proper cultural practices. Mechanically remove common purslane, but destroy the stems as they may root in open soil.

Chemical Control

Application Period

Apply postemergence broadleaf herbicides from mid summer through early autumn during periods of active growth; apply preemergence products in mid to late spring.

Active Ingredient in Labeled Products

Preemergent	Postemergent
benefin dithiopyr ethofumesate isoxaben pendimethalin prodiamine trifluralin	2,4-D 2,4-DP bentazon chlorsulfuron* clopyralid dicamba MCPA MCPP triclopyr *not on tall fescue or ryegrass turf