Portulaca Oleracea, 10 O’Clock (Yellow), Purslane Plant
A vibrant, dual-purpose plant that dazzles with sunny yellow blooms (opening around 10 AM!) and offers edible, nutrient-packed leaves. Known as Purslane, 10 O’Clock Plant, or Luniya (Hindi), this hardy succulent thrives in heat, neglect, and poor soil—perfect for gardens, pots, or even edible landscapes!
Key Features:
- Cheerful Yellow Flowers: Small, bright blooms that open mid-morning and close by dusk.
- Edible & Nutritious: Thick, juicy green leaves rich in omega-3, vitamins, and antioxidants (use in salads, soups, or stir-fries!).
- Drought Warrior: Stores water in succulent leaves – survives weeks without watering!
- Compact & Spreading: Grows 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) tall, ideal for ground cover, rock gardens, or containers.
Why Grow This Plant?
✅ Low Maintenance: Thrives in neglect – perfect for busy gardeners.
✅ Dual Use: Beautiful blooms + superfood greens for your kitchen.
✅ Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies.
✅ Pet-Safe: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Care Tips:
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best blooms and leaf growth.
- Water: Let soil dry completely between waterings (overwatering = root rot).
- Soil: Sandy, rocky, or poor soil – no fertilizer needed!
- Harvesting: Pick young leaves for salads (mild, lemony flavor).
Note:
- Self-Seeds: May spread in warm climates (check local guidelines if invasive in your area).
- Medicinal Use: Traditionally used for skin health and digestion.
Great For:
- Edible gardens, sunny balconies, or drought-prone areas.
- Pairing with herbs like basil or thyme for a functional, pretty display.
- Gifting to health-conscious gardeners or succulent lovers.