Origin
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus subsp. parviflorus Wisura & Glen, commonly known as sour fig, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is believed to have been introduced to other continents including North America, Australia, and Europe.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by different names across various regions. In South Africa, it is referred to as "suurvy," which means sour fig in Afrikaans. Other common names include Hottentot fig, ice plant, highway ice plant, and pigface.
Uses
Carpobrotus edulis has several uses, including culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. The plant is considered an excellent source of Vitamin C, and its fruit is eaten fresh or processed into jams, jellies, and pickles in some cultures. Medicinally, the plant is believed to have healing properties and has been used to treat various ailments such as urinary tract infections, burns, and sore throats. Besides, the plant's attractive flowers and succulent leaves make it an ideal ornamental plant in rock gardens, borders, and around pools.
General Appearance
Carpobrotus edulis is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent that reaches a height of about 30cm. The plant has fleshy, angular leaves that are triangular to oblong in shape and can be up to 8cm long. The leaves are about 1-2cm wide and can be green, grey-green, or bluish-green. The plant has large, showy flowers that bloom in the summer or fall, and these can be white, yellow, pink, or purple. The fruit is a fleshy, edible berry that is green when unripe and turns pink, purple, or reddish-brown when mature.
Light Requirements
Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus prefers full sun exposure. It requires at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to grow optimally.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to coastal regions with a Mediterranean climate. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows well in temperatures between 20°C to 28°C during the day and 10°C to 20°C at night. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations of up to 5°C.
Soil Requirements
Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus grows well in well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic to mildly alkaline soil. It requires soil with good fertility. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils and can rot if grown in such soils.
Cultivation Methods
Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus is a hardy, fast-growing succulent that requires good drainage and full sun exposure. This plant is ideal for rocky, coastal gardens, and can be grown in containers with a well-draining soil mix.
To propagate the Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus, cuttings can be taken from the stems. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days before planting in a sandy soil mix. The cutting should be kept in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Watering Needs
Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus is a drought-tolerant plant that requires regular watering during the first year of growth. After the first year, watering can be reduced to once or twice a month. Overwatering can cause root rot and will harm the plant.
During the summer months, it is crucial to water the plant in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid burning the leaves. The soil should be allowed to dry out before the next watering.
Fertilization
It is not necessary to fertilize the Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus, but you can feed it with a low-nitrogen fertilizer during the spring and summer months.
Avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer as it can cause the plant to grow too fast and become leggy.
Pruning
Pruning should be done only when necessary to remove dead or damaged leaves. Avoid pruning during the flowering season as it can interfere with the growth and blooming of the plant.
To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the stem tips during the active growing season. This will result in a denser, healthier plant.
Propagation of Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus
Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus can be propagated through different methods such as:
Seeds
Seeds are the most natural way to propagate Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus. The seeds can be harvested from the existing plants and sown in suitable soil or substrate. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining medium and kept moist until they germinate. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 20°C and 25°C.
Cuttings
Another method of propagation is through cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from mature plants before the flowering season. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and have at least two pairs of leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone, planted in well-draining soil or substrate, and kept moist until they root.
Division
Division can also be used to propagate Carpobrotus edulis subsp. parviflorus. This method involves dividing a mature plant into smaller sections and planting them separately. Division should be done during the active growing season. Each division should have a healthy root system and at least one pair of leaves. The divided sections should be planted in well-draining soil or substrate and kept moist until they establish roots.
Disease and Pest Management of Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus subsp. parviflorus Wisura & Glen
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus subsp. parviflorus Wisura & Glen is a succulent plant that is usually grown in gardens as a groundcover or for erosion control. However, this plant is susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if left unmanaged.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus subsp. parviflorus Wisura & Glen is root rot. This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus that attacks the plant's roots, leading to discoloration and wilting of leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to plant the succulent in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Also, if a plant is already infected with root rot, it is best to remove it and replace it with a healthy one to prevent the spread of the disease.
Melanose is another disease that can affect this plant. It manifests as dark, sunken spots on the plant's stems and leaves. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in warm and humid conditions. To prevent melanose, it is essential to maintain good air circulation around the plant and to prune any infected plant parts immediately.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus subsp. parviflorus Wisura & Glen are mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap out of the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. Spider mites, on the other hand, are tiny pests that spin webs on the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to dry out and die.
To manage these pests, it is essential to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat them immediately using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. It is also recommended to prune infected plant parts and dispose of them away from the garden to prevent the spread of the pests.
In conclusion, Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus subsp. parviflorus Wisura & Glen can be vulnerable to several diseases and pests. However, with proper care and management, it is possible to keep the plant healthy and thriving in the garden.
