Hottentot-fig, highway ice plant, sour fig, ice plant, sea fig
Carpobrotus edulis
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Edible fruit and leaves (sour, salty). Can be used as a ground cover to stabilize soil, especially in coastal areas. Useful for erosion control on slopes and dunes. Flowers attract pollinators. Potential for biofuel production. It has demonstrated use in phytoremediation to remove heavy metals from soils.
Permapeople description
Edible fig is a succulent plant native to South Africa that is widely cultivated for its edible fruit and ornamental value.
Botanical description
Carpobrotus edulis is a creeping, mat-forming succulent perennial plant native to South Africa. It has long, fleshy, three-sided leaves that are bright green to reddish in color. The large, daisy-like flowers are typically yellow or pink, turning reddish-purple as they age. The fruit is a fleshy, edible fig-like capsule containing many small seeds. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions, including drought and salinity. It is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world due to its rapid growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation.
Companion planting
Generally grows well on its own due to its aggressive nature. Avoid planting near sensitive native vegetation that it could outcompete. Can be used as a ground cover to suppress weeds around other plants, but careful management is needed to prevent it from becoming invasive.
Propagation methods
Seeds, cuttings (stem cuttings root readily), division of established plants.
History and traditions
Traditionally used in South Africa for its medicinal properties, including treatment of cuts, burns, and infections. The juice from the leaves has been used as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent. The fruit was eaten fresh or preserved. It has also been used for thatching roofs. Introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant and for erosion control.
Usage calendar
Flowering: Spring to Summer. Fruiting: Summer to Autumn. Planting: Spring or Autumn. Cuttings: Can be taken year-round, but best in Spring or Summer.