Description
Carpobrotus edulis, commonly known as Hottentot Fig, Ice Plant, or Sour Fig, is a fast-growing, succulent groundcover native to South Africa. It forms dense mats of fleshy, triangular leaves that store water, allowing it to thrive in dry, coastal, and sandy environments.
The plant produces large, daisy-like flowers in shades of bright yellow to pinkish-purple that bloom throughout spring and summer, attracting pollinators such as bees. After flowering, it develops edible, fig-shaped fruits with a tangy, sweet-sour flavor, which are sometimes used to make jams or eaten fresh in its native regions.
Carpobrotus edulis is a hardy and salt-tolerant plant ideal for stabilizing coastal dunes, preventing soil erosion, or adding vibrant color to rock gardens and dry landscapes. However, it can become invasive in some areas, so cultivation should be managed responsibly.
Germination Guide
🌍 South Africa (coastal and inland slopes from Namaqualand in the Northern Cape through the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape)
Easy
Carpobrotus edulis, commonly known as Hottentot Fig or Sour Fig, is a creeping succulent native to South Africa. Both the edible fruits and leaves are nutritious and have been traditionally used in South Africa, where the fruits are eaten fresh or made into jam, and the leaves are used for medicinal purposes. Seeds germinate readily over a wide temperature range, requiring light and consistent moisture for successful propagation.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
7 – 10 days
Temperature
Min 20°C
Ideal 23°C
Max 25°C
🌡️ Temperature alternation recommended
— Lower night-time temperatures are beneficial for germination
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Well-drained seed compost (or 1 part peat/coir, 1 part perlite, 1 part vermiculite)
Recommended container
Seed tray or container covered with transparent plastic or under glass
Growing Tips
Surface sow seeds on moist, well-drained compost in spring (March to June). Place under glass or in a propagator. Seeds require light to germinate, so do not cover with soil. Maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging, as the species is naturally adapted to well-drained sandy soils. Lower night temperatures (3-5°C below daytime) accelerate germination. Germination typically occurs within 7-10 days at 23°C. Once seedlings develop two true leaves, prick out into individual pots and grow in a greenhouse for the first winter. Transplant to permanent locations in late spring after the last frosts. This species germinates year-round and does not require stratification or pre-treatment. Ensure excellent drainage in the final growing medium, as the plant comes from coastal dunes.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.