Hottentot Fig
Carpobrotus edulis
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Pl. 592B — Carpobrotus edulis
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IOverview
Overview
The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) is a perennial shrub native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. Known for its edible fruit and leaves, this plant thrives in dry and moist conditions, preferring light sandy soil with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It can be found growing wild in the Cape Provinces and is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its culinary uses. One distinctive feature of the Hottentot Fig is its ability to form dense mats that help prevent erosion, while another notable characteristic is its light, airy habit, reaching a height of just 0.1 meters.
Quick answers
What is Hottentot Fig?
The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) is a perennial shrub native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. Known for its edible fruit and leaves, this plant thrives in dry and moist conditions, preferring light sandy soil with a pH between 7 and 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) 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 and can grow as a perennial shrub up to 0.1 meters tall. Provide ample sunlight, ensuring the soil remains neither too dry nor overly wet. Propagate through stem cuttings or division in spring or early summer for best results. Harvest edible fruit and leaves as needed.
Light
9/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Shrub
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 lightly to maintain shape if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to keep the plant compact, but avoid cutting into old wood as it may not regrow.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and neglecting to prune can all lead to problems with Hottentot Fig.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus edulis) is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. The fruit is often consumed fresh, while the leaves are used in salads or as a vegetable. Both parts are also dried for later use. Skip the preparation details to maintain brevity.
Other uses:Fire retardantErosion controlTanninGround cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 29 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 29 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 1 native· 29 introduced
Europe5 regions
introduced (5)AlbaniaFranceItalyPortugalSpain
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Bolivia
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaCabo Verde
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
introduced:Brazil South, California, Chile Central, East Aegean Is., Florida, Juan Fernández Is., Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Mexico Northwest, New South Wales, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Pitcairn Is., Society Is., South Australia, St.Helena, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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