Hottentot Fig
Carpobrotus acinaciformis
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Pl. 1869 — Carpobrotus acinaciformis
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IOverview
Overview
The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus acinaciformis) is a perennial succulent native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This plant thrives in dry and moist conditions, preferring light, sandy soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It can be found growing in habitats across the Cape Provinces. Known for its edible fruit and leaves, Hottentot Fig is valued both as an ornamental plant and for culinary use. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to form dense mats, making it useful for erosion control. Another notable characteristic is its light energy requirement, thriving in areas with moderate sunlight.
Quick answers
What is Hottentot Fig?
The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus acinaciformis) is a perennial succulent native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This plant thrives in dry and moist conditions, preferring light, sandy soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It can be found growing in habitats across the Cape Provinces.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Hottentot Fig thrives in light to moist conditions and prefers well-draining sandy soils with a pH of 7-7.5. It is hardy in temperate regions (zones 8-11) and can grow up to 0.1 meters tall as a perennial. For optimal growth, provide full sun to partial shade. Regular watering is necessary during dry periods, but ensure the soil does not become waterlogged. Propagate through stem cuttings or division of mature plants. Harvest edible fruit and leaves for use in culinary applications.
Light
9/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.1 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Hottentot Fig for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Hottentot Fig in your garden for an easy-care, drought-tolerant plant.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Hottentot Fig plant or seeds, a container if planting indoors, and well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, sandy soil with a pH between 7 and 7.5. Ensure good drainage for outdoor planting.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into the garden or start seeds indoors in small containers.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rot, but ensure the soil is not bone dry. Keep the plant in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil feels very dry. Prune occasionally for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain size and remove any dead or damaged parts as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soils, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus acinaciformis) is eaten in its native Cape Provinces. Its fruit and leaves are both edible. The fruit can be consumed raw or used to make jams and preserves. Leaves are often eaten fresh or cooked as a vegetable, adding a slightly sour flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Fire retardantErosion controlGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 8 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 8 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 1 native· 8 introduced
Europe3 regions
introduced (3)PortugalSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Palestine
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)LibyaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1869c3f7-ff7d-41af-9316-8237da3c43b8
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