2. It’s a Natural Soil Protector
Purslane acts as a living mulch by covering bare soil and reducing moisture loss. Because of its dense, low-growing nature, it prevents weeds from taking over while also protecting your soil from erosion. In dry climates, this plant can be a lifesaver for your garden by keeping the ground cool and moist.
3. A Drought-Resistant Green
If you live in an area with hot, dry summers, purslane is one of the toughest plants you can have in your garden. It thrives in poor soil conditions, requires very little water, and can survive extreme temperatures. While other plants wilt and struggle, purslane keeps growing strong—proving that it’s a garden warrior, not a pest.
4. It’s Great for Pollinators
The tiny yellow flowers of purslane attract bees and other pollinators, which help improve the health of your garden. If you have a vegetable garden, keeping purslane around can actually boost pollination and increase your overall yield.
5. Purslane is Medicinal
Purslane has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its many health benefits. It’s been said to help with:
- Digestive health – Purslane is high in fiber, aiding digestion and gut health.
- Skin conditions – Some cultures use purslane in remedies for skin inflammation, burns, and wounds.
- Heart health – Thanks to its omega-3 content, it may help lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Should You Keep It or Remove It?
While purslane can spread quickly, it doesn’t compete aggressively with other plants. If you’re worried about it taking over your garden, you can contain it in pots or designated areas instead of removing it completely.
Instead of treating purslane as an unwanted weed, consider embracing it as a nutritious food, soil protector, and resilient garden companion. Next time you see it in your yard, you might just decide to harvest it for dinner instead of tossing it away! 🌱
