broadleaf weed · annual

How to Kill Purslane

Portulaca oleracea

Hand-pull or digeasy to controlLawn & beds

What Purslane looks like

Low-growing succulent with thick, fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves and reddish stems. Small yellow flowers. Thrives in hot, dry conditions.

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Best approach: Hand-pull or dig

Purslane pulls out very easily due to shallow roots. But you MUST bag and dispose of pulled plants — stems left on moist soil will re-root and grow. Actually edible and nutritious if you want to eat it instead!

Non-chemical management

Hand-pull before it flowers — but remove pulled plants from the area, as stems can re-root on moist soil.

How to stop Purslane coming back

Mulch flower beds heavily (3-4 inches). Purslane needs bare soil and sun to germinate.

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FAQ

What does Purslane look like?

Low-growing succulent with thick, fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves and reddish stems. Small yellow flowers. Thrives in hot, dry conditions.

What's the best way to kill Purslane?

Hand-pull or dig. Purslane pulls out very easily due to shallow roots. But you MUST bag and dispose of pulled plants — stems left on moist soil will re-root and grow. Actually edible and nutritious if you want to eat it instead!

Is Purslane hard to get rid of?

Purslane is rated easy to control. Most homeowners can handle it in one or two treatments.

How do I stop Purslane coming back?

Mulch flower beds heavily (3-4 inches). Purslane needs bare soil and sun to germinate.

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