#24. Candy Flower
Family Name:
Purslane Family
Habitat:
Moist open woods.
Characteristics:
1. Peppermint-striped petals (5 petals).
2. Leaves are elliptical-shaped, thick and fleshy. They appear opposite one
another on the soft , fleshy stem.
3. Many flexible leaf & flower stems arise from the base of the plant.
4. Candy Flower wilts quickly after picking.
Uses or Importances:
1. Candy Flower may be used as a lettuce or spinach substitute in salads.
The leaves, stems, and flowers may all be eaten. All parts are high in vitamins
A & C.
2. The juices may be rubbed into the hair with one's hands for use as a styling
gel.
3. Early miners reportedly let ants walk over the leaves to help give it a
tangy, vinegar-like flavor.
Paul Slichter