Winter Purslane Seeds

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is a tender, heat-loving plant that thrives in summer, producing succulent, tangy leaves. It is often grown as an annual and prefers dry, well-drained soil. Winter Purslane (Claytonia perfoliata), also known as miner’s lettuce, is hardier and suited to cooler conditions. These are good seeds to sow in October, providing a reliable source of fresh greens when other salad crops are scarce. Its leaves are mild, tender, and slightly succulent.

Sow Winter Purslane outdoors year-round, though the best time is July to October. Sow seeds 1.5cm (1/2in) deep in rows 25-30cm (10-12in) apart. Once seedlings appear, thin them to 25cm (10in) apart to allow space for growth. Keep plants well-watered and weed-free.

Harvest begins 6-8 weeks after sowing and continues through autumn and winter.

Winter Purslane is a hardy annual, but its ability to self-seed makes it behave like a short-lived perennial in many gardens. Once established, it can tolerate light frosts and will continue growing through winter in mild climates – but might die back in colder areas – harvest before flowering to prevent self-seeding.