Is This a Portulaca Oleracea?

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by RPBnimrod, Aug 22, 2009.

  1. RPBnimrod

    RPBnimrod Active Member

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    I'm almost certain it's portulaca oleracea. I've seen the plant on my block, growing in a crack in the sidewalk for about two years (or at least that's how long that I've noticed it). The actual plant's located in NYC my real question is, would it be safe for me to eat a bit of it, after washing it and boiling it of-course?

    Also, in my third picture, what is the grass-looking plant's name/species? The actual "grass blades" as I'll call them, are very long, thin, and hair-like in appearance. It also appears to be an ornamental plant species, and it's tended to by people occasionally.
     

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  2. saltcedar

    saltcedar Rising Contributor 10 Years

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    While your ID looks correct I'd be a bit concerned with lead uptake from the soil.
    Might want to look into that being in NYC?
     
  3. RPBnimrod

    RPBnimrod Active Member

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    very true indeed. but doesn't boiling remove toxins like lead?
     
  4. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    No. But lead risks are low now, so long after lead stopped being used as a petrol additive. If you're still worried, send a soil sample for analysis.
     
  5. RPBnimrod

    RPBnimrod Active Member

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    Thanks. Are there any other possible high levels of toxic chemicals that I would need to be worried about? Mercury, plastics, etc.?
     

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