How to Pick Purslane for Eating

Where to Find Purslane

The amazing thing about purslane is that it grows almost everywhere. You may already have it in your backyard without realizing it.

Common places to find purslane:

• Cracks in sidewalks and driveways.
• Around gardens and fields.
• Open, sunny areas with dry soil.
• Abandoned lots or roadsides.

⚠️ Important Safety Tip: Only pick purslane from clean areas. Avoid locations near traffic, polluted soil, or places sprayed with pesticides and herbicides. Harvesting from safe spots ensures both good taste and health.

How to Identify Purslane

Before you harvest, make sure you have the right plant.

• Leaves are fleshy, oval, and smooth-edged (not serrated).
• Stems are often reddish or pinkish.
• Growth pattern is low and spreading, close to the ground.
• When cut, stems are juicy, not milky.

👉 Be careful: Some plants look similar but produce a milky sap when broken. Those are not safe to eat.

How to Pick Purslane for Eating

Once you’ve located purslane, it’s time to harvest it properly.

1. Choose young plants — These are tender and full of flavor. Older plants may be stringy.
2. Focus on the leaves and thin stems — These parts are the easiest to chew and the most enjoyable.
3. Pick bite-sized portions — Little clusters that fit easily on a spoon are best for salads or toppings.
4. Harvest in the morning — Purslane is crispest and most hydrating early in the day.
5. Leave some behind — Don’t uproot everything. Take what you need and let the plant continue to grow.