Verdolaga de mar | Sea Purslane
Scientific Name: Sesuvium portulacastrum
Common Names: Sea Purslane
Culinary Use: Sea Purslane is a succulent plant that grows in coastal areas and is sometimes used in culinary preparations. The tender leaves and stems of Sea Purslane have a crisp texture and a slightly salty flavor. They can be used fresh in salads, as a garnish, or cooked briefly in stir-fries and other dishes.
Medicinal Use: Sea Purslane is not widely recognized for specific medicinal uses. However, in traditional medicine, it has been used to treat skin conditions, gastrointestinal issues, and as a diuretic.
Fun Fact: Sea Purslane is a hardy plant that thrives in sandy or saline environments, such as coastal dunes and salt marshes. It is named for its resemblance to the common purslane plant (Portulaca oleracea) and its ability to grow in coastal areas. Sea Purslane is well-adapted to withstand salty conditions and can store water in its fleshy leaves, making it an excellent plant for coastal ecosystems.