Also known as:
- Sesuvium portulacastrum
- Shoreline Purslane
- Dampalit
Growing conditions:
- Sandy or well-drained soils
- Full sun
- Groundcover up to 30cm high
- Suitable for pots, rockeries and garden beds
- Drought tolerant
Propagation
- Cuttings- rooted stem segments
- Layering
- Seeds
This plant grows in coastal areas around the world and has a rich culinary and medicinal history.
High in Vitamin C, Sea Purslane has been used to treat ailments from scurvy to leprosy to fevers and more.
Leaves can be eaten raw, blanched or steamed and apparently make an excellent pickle.
Along with antibacterial and antifungal components, It also contains ecdysterone, a naturally occurring steroid that can enhance athletic performance.
It provides important ecosystem services as a pioneer species on coastal dunes and grows well in sandy soil and sunny conditions. It also makes an excellent living groundcover, provided it is harvested frequently to stop it taking over.
My favourite use is to simply pluck a few leaves and sprinkle them in salad for crunchy, fresh salty bursts of flavour!
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