In the United States, common purslane is a minor crop because of its use in ethnic cooking and its reputed health benefits. The reddish to flesh-colored stems originate from a central rooting point, radiating out like spokes of a wheel. The stems vary in length, commonly up to 12 inches. The leaves, although generally arranged opposite, may also occur alternately along the stem, particularly near the base. Seed are borne in a small pod with a top that comes off like the lid on a cookie jar.
Common purslane is a prolific seeder.
In late summer, flat mats of mature purslane can be turned over to reveal thousands of seed on the soil surface. It germinates very near to or at the soil surface in large numbers after an irrigation or rain. Its ability to reroot after cultivation or hoeing frequently enables it to survive these cultural control methods. Common purslane is low in stature and forms dense mats. These vegetative mats utilize available moisture and nutrients and screen out light to the soil surface, preventing emergence of other seedlings.