SafePlants

Carpobrotus edulis: The Hottentot Fig

Carpobrotus edulis, commonly known as Hottentot-fig, ice plant, highway ice plant, pigface, or s fig (in South Africa), is a fascinating succulent with a rich history and a significant ecological impact. It's also known as Kaffir Fig and Cape Fig. The name "Hotnotsvy" was used as far back as 1685.

This plant is also referred to as Iceplant, Sea fig, S fig, ghaukum, and ghoenavy.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is a succulent with thick, green leaves.

Considerations for Children

• The plant has been used for food and medicine by some.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carpobrotus edulis
• Common Name: Hottentot fig
• Family: Aizoaceae (Stone Plant or Ice Plant family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Domain: Eukaryota
• Synonyms: C. acinaciformis, C. aequilaterus, C. edulis var. chrysophthalmus, C. edulis, Mesembryanthemum edulis, Mesembryanthemum edule (older classification)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to South Africa, specifically the southwestern Cape Coast region.
• Introduced to various regions, including Europe (where it has naturalized in some coastal habitats), coastal California and the Channel Islands, Devon, Cornwall, Portugal, and the Riviera.
• Found in sandy and rocky places by the sea, coastal cliffs, and dunes.

Ecological Role

• Considered an invasive species in many regions.
• It can outcompete native coastal plants, leading to habitat alteration and reduced biodiversity.
• Impacts soil animals.

Morphological Characteristics

• A large, spreading succulent that forms mats.
• Leaves are thick, green, triangular in cross-section, and range from 5-16cm in length. Some varieties have thicker leaves than others.
• Stems are procumbent and woody, often rooting at the nodes and can reach up to 2 meters long.
• Flowers are bright pinks and yellows and daisy-like. Some varieties are yellow (var. edulis).
• Grows up to 50m across.

Quirky Facts

• The Hottentot Fig was named after an African tribe that used the plant for food and medicine.
• The plant's name, "Hotnotsvy", was already in use in 1685.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Can be found outcompeting native plants on cliffs.

Uses

• Historically used for food and medicinal purposes.
• Used to contain the movement of sand.
• Leaves are sometimes used in salads.
• Leaves can be used medicinally when cut open.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A website where people share tips and ideas for gardens.
• Collins English Dictionary: Provides definitions and information.
• California Academy of Sciences: A scientific institution with information on plant species.
• RHS: Provides help and information on Carpobrotus edulis.