Overview
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus, also known as the Hottentot Fig, is a succulent plant within the family Aizoaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is known for its edible fruit and bright, showy flowers.
Appearance
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is a low-growing plant that typically reaches 6 inches in height. The leaves are fleshy and triangular in shape, with grooves or channels on the upper surface. The flowers are large and showy, with shades of pink, purple, and yellow. The fruits are edible, resembling a fig in shape and texture. The plant spreads through the landscape by sending out runners, forming a dense mat of vegetation.
Common Names
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is known by several common names, including Hottentot Fig, Sour Fig, Ice Plant, and Highway Ice Plant.
Uses
The fruit of Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is edible and has a sweet, tart flavor. It can be eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies. In addition, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as colds, coughs, and sore throats. Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is also used as an ornamental plant, valued for its showy flowers and ability to withstand drought and poor soils. Finally, it is used in erosion control projects, helping to stabilize soils and prevent further degradation of the landscape.
Light Requirements
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is a sun-loving plant that requires full direct sunlight exposure for optimal growth. Despite thriving in full sun, it can also tolerate partial shade if necessary.
Temperature Requirements
As a native plant of the subtropical and temperate regions of South Africa, Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus grows best in warm climates with average to high temperatures. It can tolerate occasional short frosts, but extended cold temperatures can be detrimental to its survival.
Soil Requirements
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is a succulent plant that thrives in well-draining soils. It prefers sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils with moderate fertility and low water holding capacity. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, but it prefers neutral soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Carpobrotus concavus, also known as Pigface or Sour Fig, is a resilient and drought-tolerant plant that can be easily cultivated in a dry and warm climate. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6-7 and prefers a full-sun to partial shade exposure. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds, with cuttings being the preferred method, as they are more reliable and faster to establish.
Watering Needs
Carpobrotus concavus needs very little water and can tolerate long periods of drought. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential to avoid watering the plant excessively. It is recommended to water the plant only when the soil is completely dry, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon.
Fertilization
Carpobrotus concavus does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a small amount of balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the growing season can promote healthier growth and better flowering. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing as this can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Carpobrotus concavus does not require regular pruning, but occasional trimming can help control its growth and maintain a desirable shape. It is recommended to prune the plant during late winter or early spring before it starts producing new growth. Use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant, and remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent infection from spreading.
Propagation of Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is a succulent plant that is propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division of clumps.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus can be collected from the ripe fruit. The collected seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix during the spring season. The potting mix should be kept moist, and it is recommended to cover the pot with a plastic sheet to maintain humidity until the seeds germinate. The germination period of Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus is about 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus can be propagated through stem cuttings during the summer season when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches long and cut it cleanly with a sharp knife. Remove any leaves or flowers from the lower part of the stem, leaving only 2-3 leaves on the upper part. The cutting can be dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance rooting. The cutting can be placed in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist and placed in a bright but shaded area. Roots should begin to develop in about 6 weeks.
Propagation by Division
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus can be propagated through division by separating clumps with several stems and roots. Divisions are usually done in the spring or early summer. Dig up the clumps carefully and shake off the loose soil. Divide the clumps into smaller portions, ensuring each portion has a good root system. The divided portions should be replanted in a well-draining potting mix, watered well, and placed in a bright, but shaded area.
Disease and Pest Management for Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus
Carpobrotus concavus L.Bolus, also known as the ice plant, is a hardy succulent that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal infections: Carpobrotus concavus is susceptible to fungal infections, particularly during wet or humid weather conditions. Symptoms of fungal infections include discoloration, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage fungal infections, apply a fungicide that is specifically formulated for succulent plants. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and apply the fungicide during dry weather conditions.
Bacterial soft rot: This disease is caused by bacteria and is characterized by soft, mushy brown spots on the leaves and stems of Carpobrotus concavus. To manage bacterial soft rot, prune away infected plant parts using clean, sterilized tools. Make sure to dispose of the infected plant parts properly and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that can infest Carpobrotus concavus. These insects are small, white, and fuzzy-looking and can typically be found around the base of the plant or on the leaves. To manage mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause discoloration, webbing, and stunted growth in Carpobrotus concavus. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to help control the infestation.
By being vigilant and taking prompt action, you can help manage diseases and pests that may affect Carpobrotus concavus. Remember to practice good plant hygiene by keeping the plant clean and healthy and avoiding overwatering or overcrowding the plant.
