Ice plant, Highway ice plant, Pigface
carpobrotus edulis
Also known as: ["Hottentot fig","Sour fig"]
Overview
A creeping, mat-forming succulent with fleshy leaves and bright magenta or yellow flowers, native to South Africa and invasive in many regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Carpobrotus |
| Botanical Name: | Carpobrotus edulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or as ground cover in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy or less vibrant.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; rotate plants for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (60–90°F or 15–32°C); prefers mild winters but can tolerate brief frosts down to 28°F (-2°C).
Protect from frost; ensure good air flow in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
rarely required, every 3–4 months with balanced fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of rhizomes or runners.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss; can root directly in soil or water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to desired length; thin out dense areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; control spread in garden beds; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and space.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots; position plant; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture penetration but avoid pooling; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add sand, perlite, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold can be fatal.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter (e.g., mulch, row covers); avoid planting in frost-prone areas; choose hardy cultivars if needed.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme drought.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in intense heat; water deeply during dry spells; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCarpobrotus edulis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though ingestion in large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCarpobrotus edulis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to its fibrous nature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCarpobrotus edulis, commonly known as ice plant or Hottentot fig, is generally considered safe for consumption in moderation. However, excessive ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high oxalate content, which can interfere with nutrient absorption and potentially cause kidney issues in susceptible individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Carpobrotus edulis invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered highly invasive in many regions, particularly coastal areas, where it outcompetes native vegetation.
Q: Can the fruit of Carpobrotus edulis be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sour, fig-like flavor, often used in jams or salads.
Q: How does Carpobrotus edulis spread?
A: It spreads rapidly via creeping stems that root at the nodes and by seed dispersal, often aided by birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks in summer, m |
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