Broadleaf Weeds - St Augustine Lawn - Purslane
BES-TEX Weed ID Guide · Broadleaf Weeds
Purslane
Also called Common Purslane · Portulaca oleracea
Common Name
Purslane, Common Purslane
Latin Name
Portulaca oleracea
Family
Portulacaceae
Life Cycle / Type
Summer annual · Broadleaf
What Is It?
Purslane is a low-growing summer annual broadleaf weed with thick, succulent leaves and reddish, prostrate stems that radiate outward from a central point. It thrives in hot, dry conditions, bare soil, and thin turf, and can spread rapidly once established.
Soil Temperature & Germination
Purslane germinates as soils warm in late spring and summer.
Above 65°F
Germination begins
Above 75°F
Rapid emergence and spread
Decision Question
Is the purslane visible above the soil right now?
Why This Weed Comes Back
Missed late-spring or early-summer pre-emergent timing
Bare or disturbed soil
Heat-stressed or thin turf
Learn the Basics
A healthy, thick lawn is the best defense against weeds.
