Consulta Plantas

Care of the succulent plant Carpobrotus edulis or Hottentots fig

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.

Hottentots fig is used as cover plants or in hanging pots. It's ideal for gardens by the sea; it resists salinity well.

Carpobrotus edulis needs in full sun exposure (facing south); tolerates high temperatures but does not resist frost.

Cape fig can be grown in any type of well-drained soil; it grows 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.

Carpobrotus edulis is a resistant plant to the usual diseases and pests.

Sour fig propagates easily by stem cuttings and by seeds, after soaking in water.

Images of the succulent plant Carpobrotus edulis or Hottentots fig