Purslane

Portulaca oleraceae

Origin: Thought to be India

Definition: It’s called verdolaga in Mexico and pourpier in France. We usually call it a weed. But it’s time to get hip to purslane (purse-lin, -lane). It’s ridiculously healthy, packed with vitamins A and C—plus it’s one of the vegetables highest in omega-3s. The plump leaves have a sour, citruslike taste.

Uses: Gives a crunchy punch to any salad.

Grow it: Purslane loves heat and moisture. Once planted, it’ll usually keep showing up in your garden. It won’t choke other crops, but it will definitely be a presence. Seeds available from Seeds of Change (seedsofchange.com).