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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Vol. 12 No. 3 (2025)

Sesuvium portulacastrum: A versatile halophyte for bioremediation and sustainable applications: A review

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.9194
Submitted
29 April 2025
Published
08-07-2025 — Updated on 14-07-2025
Versions

Abstract

Plant Sesuvium portulacastrum, commonly known as sea purslane, is a pioneer plant species in coastal areas and belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It thrives in sandy and saline environments, making it highly resistant to abiotic stresses like salinity and drought. This plant can be used for the restoration of salt-contaminated soils due to its ability to tolerate high sodium (Na) concentrations. Even under extreme salinity, it continues to grow without visible damage. The plant also produces a variety of bioactive compounds, including 20 hydroxyecdysone, secondary metabolites and antibacterial compounds. It is also rich in essential nutrients, making it valuable for application in food, medicine, natural fertilizers and animal feed. Studies in its biochemistry, molecular biology and physiology has
provided insights into the mechanisms underlying its abiotic stress tolerance. Furthermore, biotechnological studies suggest its potential for pharmaceutical application. In dry and semiarid regions, the large-scale cultivation of S. portulacastrum contributes to the remediation of soils by reducing heavy metal concentration and salt concentrations in soils. For instance, in experiment where Na was added to soil, it led to a decrease in electrical conductivity and Na content, with 77.8 % of the Na extracted over a period of ninety days. Due to its resilience under saline, drought-prone and heavy metal-stressed conditions, this species serves as an effective bio indicator for pollution detection and a predictive tool for forecasting soil salinity.

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