It succulents to be you

Today I discovered a well-developed plant in with my red currant bush. Why I didn’t notice it before makes me think that this plant is fast growing. I’m in the garden twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. I wonder why this plant likes to live next to my red currant bush in full sun, which can reach 14 hours a day.

The plant is called Portulaca Oleracea or Common Purslane. It’s a succulent herb that is rich in nutrients. I learned that I can eat most if not all of it, including its flowers. The stems can be fermented, for example. Not sure I would eat the roots, and maybe I’ll run across somebody zealous enough to provide enlightenment.

Before the heat wave had temperatures surging to 39°C today, I brought my red (and black) currant bushes inside. Upon furter inspection, I saw that my new friend had wilted. The shades are nearly all down, and the internal temperature is 22,7°C. The level of humidity is also different. It’s no wonder that it is shocked in its temporary accommodations. I’ve learned that it’s also considered invasive, so I fully expect it to bounce back when returned to the outdoors.