Indian Lettuce, Miner’s Lettuce

Claytonia perfoliata

Claytonia perfoliata

Description

In Europe the Indian Lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata) is a neophyte. It originates from North America, but is now also common in many European countries.

The annual plant belongs to the family Montiaceae. Its growing season lasts from autumn to early summer. Here in Germany the small white flowers appear from February to June.

Claytonia perfoliata can grow up to 30 centimeters high and can be found along roadsides, in fields, weed fields and prefers part-shaded to shaded places.

Indian Lettuce is not related to Lettuce (Lactuca sativa, daisy family Asteraceae).

Claytonia perfoliata is also known as Spring Beauty, Winter Purslane or Cuban Spinach.

Claytonia perfoliata

Countries

As a naturalized species Indian Lettuce can be found in: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Claytonia perfoliata

Uses

Indian Lettuce can be eaten raw or cooked. Its leaves and flowers are edible. Besides vitamin C, it also contains iron, calcium, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids.

Claytonia perfoliata

Common names

Dutch
Winterpostelein, kleine winterpostelein

French
Claytonia Perfoliée, Claytone de Cuba, Pourpier d’Hiver

German
Gewöhnliches Tellerkraut, Winterportulak, Postelein

Italian
Lattuga dei minatori, portulaca invernale

Portuguese
Beldroega-de-inverno

Spanish
Lechuga del minero

Indian Lettuce
Indian Lettuce
Winter Purslane
Winter Purslane
Spring Beauty
Spring Beauty
Miners Lettuce
Miner’s Lettuce
Cuban Spinach
Cuban Spinach

Categories: Fruit & Vegetables | Wildflowers |

More species from the Montiaceae family