Pink Purslane, Siberian springbeauty

Claytonia sibirica

Physical Characteristics

Claytonia sibirica is an evergreen Annual/Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to July, and the seeds ripen from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Siberia. Western N. America - Alaska to California. Naturalized in Britain.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked[2, 62, 183]. They usually have a fairly bland flavour and are quite nice in a salad or cooked as a green vegetable. The leaves have a distinct earthy after-taste rather like raw beetroot[K]. They are available all year round but can turn rather bitter in the summer, especially if the plant is growing in a hot dry position[K]. Although on the small side, the leaves are produced in abundance and are very easily harvested[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antidandruff Diuretic Ophthalmic Poultice The plant is diuretic[257]. A poultice of the chewed leaves has been applied to cuts and sores[257]. The juice of the plant has been used as eye drops for sore red eyes[257]. A cold infusion of the stems has been used as an antidandruff wash for the hair[257].

Known Hazards

None known