Purslane (Portulaca oleracea) is a highly nutritious, edible plant, while spotted spurge (Euphorbia maculata) is toxic and can cause irritation or illness. Here’s how to tell them apart:
1. Leaf Shape and Texture
- Purslane: Leaves are thick, fleshy, paddle-shaped, and smooth.
- Spotted Spurge: Leaves are thin, elongated, and often have a reddish-brown spot in the center.
2. Stem Characteristics
- Purslane: Stems are succulent, reddish-green, and smooth.
- Spotted Spurge: Stems are thinner, hairy, and exude a milky, white sap when broken.
3. Flowers
- Purslane: Small, bright yellow flowers bloom in sunlight.
- Spotted Spurge: Tiny, inconspicuous flowers appear with small, heart-shaped bracts.
4. Growth Habit
- Purslane: Forms a dense, organized mat with stems radiating from a central point.
- Spotted Spurge: Grows in a more sprawling, disorganized manner.
5. Safety Note
Never eat a plant unless you’re 100% confident of its identity. When foraging for purslane, check for the absence of white sap, as this is a clear indicator of toxic spurge.
Conclusion
While purslane and spotted spurge may look similar, their unique features—leaf texture, stems, and sap—make identification easy with a careful eye. Foragers and gardeners alike should take caution to avoid accidental ingestion of toxic plants.