Hottentot-fig
Carpobrotus edulis
Edulis
About this plant
Carpobrotus edulis, commonly called Hottentot-fig, is a succulent groundcover known for its thick, fleshy leaves and bright, daisy-like flowers that are usually pink or purple. It spreads quickly and is often used to stabilize soil and prevent erosion. The plant produces edible fruit that tastes slightly salty and is sometimes used in jams. It is native to South Africa but has been introduced to many coastal areas worldwide.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Carpobrotus
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Caryophyllales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa
- Distribution
- Native to South Africa; widely naturalized in coastal regions of California, Australia, Mediterranean countries, and other temperate coastal areas.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Fertilizing. Fertilize lightly once or twice during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can cause leggy growth.
Carpobrotus edulis is a tough, low-maintenance succulent that thrives in sunny, dry conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought once established. Overwatering can cause root rot, so water sparingly. It requires little fertilizer and is generally pest-resistant.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Thick, succulent leaves with bright pink to purple daisy-like flowers and edible fruit. Forms a dense, spreading mat.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Potentially invasive
Generally non-toxic but may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep away from pets to avoid ingestion of large amounts.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact, Pollen
- Pollen level
- Low
Carpobrotus edulis may cause mild skin irritation in some people who touch its sap. It produces pollen, but it is not a common allergen. To reduce any risk, avoid direct contact with the plant's sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. In poorly drained soil, the plant may suffer from fungal diseases. Sometimes aphids or mealybugs can appear but are usually easy to control.
Uses
Used as groundcover for erosion control, ornamental landscaping, and edible fruit production. Also valued for drought-tolerant gardens.
Notes
Prune occasionally to control spread and remove dead stems. It can be propagated easily from stem cuttings. Avoid planting where it can become invasive in natural habitats.