Pig's Face

Pig's Face (Disphyma australe) is a perennial plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family, native to the Chatham Islands, Kermadec Islands, New Zealand North Island, and South Island. This low-growing succulent thrives in light to medium soil, both dry and moist, and prefers full sun. Pig's Face can grow up to 0.1 meters tall and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. Its distinctive fleshy, pig-like leaves are the plant's most recognizable feature, earning it its common name. In its native range, Pig's Face is edible and can be consumed both fresh and dried. The leaves and fruit are often used raw in salads, appreciated for their mild flavor. This plant adds a unique touch to gardens and landscapes, making it both ornamental and useful for culinary purposes. While it is not medicinal, its edible parts make it a valuable addition to gardens in its native and introduced regions.