Care of the succulent plant Carpobrotus edulis or Hottentots fig |
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The genus Carpobrotus, family Aizoaceae, comprises 25 species of succulent plants native to South Africa, Australia and South America. Some species are: Carpobrotus edulis, Carpobrotus chilensis, Carpobrotus rossii, Carpobrotus acinaciformis, Carpobrotus aequilaterus. Common names: Sour fig, Cape fig, Hottentots fig. This species is native to South Africa. They are creeping succulent plants with long stems (up to 2 meters/6.56 feet) and green leaves with a triangular section that look like cat's claws. They produce showy flowers in various colors: yellow, pink, red or purple. They bloom from early spring to early summer. The fruits are fleshy and edible. They are used as cover plants or in hanging pots. They are ideal for gardens by the sea; they resist salinity well. Carpobrotus edulis needs in full sun exposure (facing south); tolerates high temperatures but does not resist frost. They can be grown in any type of well-drained soil; they grow best in a normal garden substrate drained with coarse sand. Water moderately all year round; in summer increase watering a little. They resist drought well. Fertilize in autumn with manure to promote flowering. They are resistant plants to the usual diseases and pests. They propagate easily by stem cuttings and by seeds, after soaking in water. |
Images of the succulent plant Carpobrotus edulis or Hottentots fig |
 Carpobrotus edulis  Carpobrotus edulis  Carpobrotus edulis  Carpobrotus quadrifidus  Carpobrotus quadrifidus  Carpobrotus quadrifidus |