Portulaca oleracea - Flora of Qatar

Portulaca oleracea (common purslane, also known as verdolaga, pigweed, little hogweed, or pursley, and moss rose) is an annual succulent in the family Portulacaceae, which may reach 40 cm in height.[+]

Approximately forty varieties currently are cultivated. It has an extensive Old World distribution extending from North Africa through the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent to Malesia and Australasia. The species status in the New World is uncertain: in general, it is considered an exotic weed, however, there is evidence that the species was in Crawford Lake deposits (Ontario) in 1430-89 AD, suggesting that it reached North America in the pre-Columbian era. It is naturalised elsewhere and in some regions is considered an invasive weed. It has smooth, reddish, mostly prostrate stems and alternate leaves clustered at stem joints and ends. The yellow flowers have five regular parts and are up to 6 mm wide. Depending upon rainfall, the flowers appear at anytime during the year. The flowers open singly at the center of the leaf cluster for only a few hours on sunny mornings. Seeds are formed in a tiny pod, which opens when the seeds are mature. Purslane has a taproot with fibrous secondary roots and is able to tolerate poor, compacted soils and drought.

AI-generated description

Portulaca oleracea, also known as purslane, is a succulent annual herb with thick, fleshy leaves and stems. In Qatar, it has been found to grow abundantly in areas with moist soil, such as gardens, farms, and roadside verges. Studies have shown that P. oleracea is widely distributed throughout the country, particularly in the northern and central regions. It is considered a common weed in Qatari agriculture, but its edible leaves and stems are also consumed locally for their nutritional value. Research has highlighted the plant's potential as a rich source of antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other beneficial compounds, making it a valuable find in Qatar's flora.

AI-generated summary of observations

Observations of Portulaca oleracea in Qatar reveal its presence in various environments. It was spotted growing on Al Markhiya Street in West Bay, Doha, and in the Green Circles of Irkhaya Farms, where center-pivot irrigation is used. The plant also thrives in windblown sand along Salwa Road in Rawdat Ekdaim. In urban areas, it grows on waste ground, such as on Al Shatt Street in Onaiza area, and even among buildings, like on Al Jassasiya Street in Musheirib area. The plant was observed at different times of the year, including May, October, April, June, and January, indicating its ability to grow throughout the year. Its seeds were also observed, suggesting successful reproduction in these environments. Overall, Portulaca oleracea appears to be a hardy and adaptable species in Qatar.

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Acknowledgements

QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.

Portulaca oleracea L.

Common names

Extract from Wikipedia article