Has anyone ever tried Purslane?

I never even thought I might be planting weeds in my garden next year. But after reading an article on Purslane, and its great nutritional value, I might just give it a try.

Some articles I have found say, it is one of the most nutritious greens on the planet !   Now how great is that?

Purslane, is an herbaceous annual with fleshy succulent leaves, and poses one of the richest sources of fatty acids ever encountered in a green leafy plant.

This unassuming "garden weed" is chalk full of nutrients that can help manage diabetes.

The main components in the purslane are tocopherals (alpha gamma and delta), known to be strong antioxidants. Purslane has more beta-carotene than spinach, as well as high levels of magnesium and potassium. It also contains vitamins C, A, E, as well as a whole gamut of minerals, including phosphorus, zinc, calcium, magnesium, manganese, silicon and phosphorus. And, purslane has only 15 calories per 100 g portion.

Purslane can be substituted for spinach or wild greens in lasagnas, filled pastas, and Greek-style tarts.

Golden purslane has yellow leaves are 1½" rounded, thick, and succulent. Used for a juicy lemon flavour in summer salads. Mounded compact growth to 14" tall. Space 8-12" apart in 12" rows.

Seeds are available from www.wildgardenseed.com

The following is a description taken from their website.

Not the matting weed wildling, but big garden varieties that are upright and large-leafed. These do not become invasive, although they will self-sow and perform well if tended. Used by tradition as an esteemed vegetable, and for soup in the southwest. We use it raw for its juicy and lemony flavour as a summer salad item.

Highest vegetable source for omega 3 fatty acids, well-documented for beneficial cardiovascular and cholesterol controlling effects. Chickens grazing on purslane produce high omega-3 eggs. The species has no freeze tolerance, but excels in the hottest weather.