P -  Pink Purslane

Pink Purslane( ClaytoniaSibirica ) known locally as the Stewarton Flower because of its abundance growth in this area. The flower was probably introduced into the district at the Robertland Estate during Victorian times from North America.

Varieties include white flowers which grow more commonly in this area and pink ones which grow in other areas of the UK. It is considered a highly destructive invader.

Local rumour has it that the poor of the Parish used it as a beetroot substitute in their sandwiches to add flavour.The stems in leaves were used as a tonic and for some skin complaints.