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. Common purslane is unsightly, reducing the esthetic value of turf and ornamental plantings. In commercial situations common purslane can limit summer vegetable production and reduce the efficiency of harvesting nut crops, such as almonds and walnuts, from the orchard floor. The primary method of management for common purslane is prevention. Common purslane is such a prolific seeder that once it has become established it is difficult to control.