Carpobrotus Edulis ' Highway Ice Plant '

 Carpobrotus edulis is a low-growing, evergreen, succulent perennial plant producing branching stems that can be up to 3 metres long. The plant forms a dense carpet of growth about 20 cm tall that completely covers the soil. Cheerful flowers are large and have many overlapping petals in colors ranging from white to creamy yellow, orange or purple stamens are very intense yellow color.  

• Scientific Name:  Carpobrotus edulis. (L.) N.E. Br
• Synonyms: Mesembryanthemum edule L
• Common Names: Ice Plant, Highway Ice Plant, Freeway Ice Plant, Pigface, Hottentot Fig, Sour Fig, Sea Fig, Cape Fig
• Family: Aizoaceae
• Subfamily: Ruschioideae
• Tribe: Ruschieae
• Genus: Carpobrotus
• Species: C. edulis

source pic: pinterest.com

How to Grow and Care

Carpobrotus edulis is an easy to grow, water wise succulent with large 3-angled leaves and edible fruits. It forms dense mats and is frequently used for stabilizing sandy areas, dunes and embankments. It is fire-resistant and can be planted around a property in fire-prone areas. Once established, this plant is truly water wise and requires little attention. Because this plant is often undisturbed for long periods of time, it creates a sanctuary for a variety of small creatures including reptiles, rodents and a range of bugs and beetles.

Carpobrotus edulis thrives on neglect. It needs well-drained soil, a sunny position and room to spread. It is an excellent evergreen drought and wind resistant groundcover that thrives happily on flat, sandy ground and loose sand dunes, in stony soil and lime-rich or brackish soils. When planted as a groundcover around the house, this juicy vygie creates a fire-resistant barrier. Avoid use of fetilisers and compost...– See more at:HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR Carpobrotus


Origin: Carpobrotus edulis is native to South Africa. 


Links: Back to genus Carpobrotus
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