Sweet hottentot fig, Ice-plant, Sour-fig
Carpobrotus deliciosus

Family: Aizoaceae

What it is like

A succulent creeping herb. It forms mats over the ground. The leaves are cylinder shaped and fleshy. They are 3 angled. The leaves are 10 cm long and 1-2 cm thick. They are slightly curved. The flowers are bright red or golden. The flowers occur singly and are 5-7 cm across. The fruit are round and edible.

There are about 25 Carpobrotus species. Also put in the family Mesembryanthemaceae.

Where it is found

It is a Mediterranean climate plant. It is native to South Africa. It grows along the coast. It needs moderate moisture when hot and can be dry in cool weather. It suits gritty, well drained soil. It can grow on sand. It needs full sun. It can grow in arid places. It suits hardiness zones 8-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Hawaii, Pacific, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa, USA

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten. They can be eaten fresh or used for fruit salad. They can be dried and eaten like candy or made into jams and preserves. They are also used to flavour milk.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants seed easily. They can be grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Ghaukum, Higo marino

Synonyms

Carpobrotus dulcis L. Bolus; Carpobrotus fourcadei L. Bolus; Carpobrotus fourcadei var. alba L. Bolus; Mesembryanthemum deliciosus L. Bolus;