Miner’s Lettuce (Claytonia perfoliata), also called Winter Purslane or Wild Spinach, is a cold-hardy leafy green known for its mild, juicy flavor and heart-shaped leaves. Popular among early settlers and modern gardeners alike, it’s one of the first greens to sprout in spring — ideal for salads, smoothies, and gourmet dishes.
This cool-season vegetable thrives in shaded or partially sunny spots and is prized for its high vitamin C and iron content. Easy to grow and harvest, Miner’s Lettuce is perfect for home gardeners, chefs, and health enthusiasts who love fresh greens even in cooler months.
🌱 Key Features
- Nutritious leafy vegetable rich in vitamin C and antioxidants
- Cool-weather crop; thrives in spring and fall
- Tender leaves with mild, fresh flavor ideal for salads
- Grows well in shade or partial sun
- Non-GMO and easy to grow from seed
- Edible stems, leaves, and flowers
🌾 Specifications
- Scientific Name: Claytonia perfoliata
- Common Names: Miner’s Lettuce, Winter Purslane, Wild Spinach
- Plant Type: Annual Leafy Vegetable
- Seed Type: Non-GMO, Heirloom Variety
- Mature Height: 4–8 inches (10–20 cm)
- Spread: 6–10 inches (15–25 cm)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9 (cool-season annual)
- Light Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, rich soil
- Watering Needs: Consistent moisture
- Germination Time: 10–20 days
- Temperature for Germination: 50–60°F (10–16°C)
- Harvest Period: 45–60 days from sowing
- Flavor Profile: Mild, crisp, slightly tangy
- Best Growing Season: Spring or Fall
- Uses: Fresh salads, smoothies, sautés, garnishes
- Maintenance Level: Easy
- Plant Type: Non-GMO, Organic-friendly
🌿 Planting Guide (Points)
- Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or fall when soil is cool.
- Prepare moist, well-drained soil enriched with compost.
- Scatter seeds evenly and lightly cover with fine soil (1/8 inch deep).
- Keep soil consistently moist until germination.
- Provide partial shade or filtered sunlight in warmer regions.
- Thin seedlings to 2–3 inches apart for best leaf growth.
- Harvest tender leaves when 2–3 inches tall.
- Successively sow every 2–3 weeks for continuous harvests.
- Can reseed naturally for self-sustaining growth.
- Avoid hot summer temperatures for best quality leaves.
