Botanical name: Portulaca oleracea
Common Names
Pigweed, Purslane, Common purslane
Pigweed is a common annual succulent weed found throughout Australia, particularly in warm climates. It is widespread across Western Australia and is frequently seen in garden beds, lawns, pathways, and disturbed soils during spring and summer.
Pigweed is a low-growing, spreading plant that forms dense mats close to the ground. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and is highly tolerant of poor soils, making it a persistent weed in urban and landscaped environments.
The plant has smooth, reddish stems and thick, fleshy leaves that are oval-shaped and green. These succulent leaves allow pigweed to retain moisture and survive in harsh conditions. Small yellow flowers appear at the ends of stems and in leaf axils, often opening in bright sunlight.
Pigweed spreads rapidly by seed and stem fragments, with even small pieces capable of re-establishing. It is highly competitive in bare or disturbed areas and can quickly take over if left unmanaged.
Similar Species
Spurge (Euphorbia spp.), Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.)
SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS:
Garden beds and mulched areas: Use Apparent Salvo to control actively growing plants before they set seed. Also use pre-emergent such as Spartan Herbicide for prevention
Cracks of pavements, driveways, and pathways: Apply Apparent Salvo or Apparent Glyphosate to prevent establishment in hard surfaces
Bare or disturbed soils during warm months: Use Apparent Salvo early and maintain ground cover to reduce reinfestation
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