Origin
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce, commonly known as Hottentot-fig or sour fig, is a succulent plant species native to South Africa but has been introduced to other regions due to its useful properties.
Common Names
In addition to the common names mentioned earlier, Carpobrotus edulis is also known as ice plant, highway ice plant, fig marigold, and beach aster.
Uses
The plant has several uses, including medicinal, ornamental, and culinary purposes. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat skin irritations, cuts, and burns. The juices from its leaves and stems can be applied topically to soothe the skin. As an ornamental plant, Carpobrotus edulis is ideal for coastal gardens due to its ability to tolerate salty environments. Besides, its fleshy leaves and colorful flowers add a beautiful touch to any garden. In culinary, the plant can be used in jams, jellies, and even wine-making due to its high sugar content.
General Appearance
Carpobrotus edulis is a succulent plant with long, prostrate stems that grow up to 3 meters long. Its leaves are fleshy, green to grey-green, and triangular in shape, measuring up to 10 centimeters long and 7 centimeters wide. The plant produces large, showy pink or yellow flowers measuring 7-10 centimeters across. The fruits are edible, fleshy, and taste like a sour fig, from which it gets one of its common names.
Light Requirements
Carpobrotus edulis var. rubescens requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It is a drought-resilient type of plant that makes it an ideal candidate for dry and sunny locations. Therefore, it is best planted in open areas where it can receive about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
This variety of Carpobrotus edulis prefers warm to hot temperatures. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, including those found in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11. Ideally, it does well in temperatures between 64 to 86 °F. The plant can withstand occasional cold temperatures but not prolonged freezing conditions below 25°F.
Soil Requirements
Carpobrotus edulis var. rubescens is a low-maintenance plant that is well adapted to grow in poor soil conditions. It thrives in well-draining soils that are sandy or gravelly, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It prefers soil that is not waterlogged, as this may cause rotting of the roots. In regions with high rainfall, consider planting the succulent on a raised bed or in a container with well-draining soil mix.
Cultivation methods for Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce can be cultivated in well-drained soil, preferably a sandy or loamy soil mix. Ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. The plant prefers a sunny and warm environment and is drought-tolerant once established.
Watering needs for Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce requires minimal watering once it has been established and can survive long periods of drought. However, regular watering is necessary during the first few months after planting until the roots are well-established. Water the plant deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches.
Fertilization for Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce does not require much fertilization. However, if the plant is not growing well or appears to be lacking nutrients, apply a balanced fertilizer at half strength during the growing season to supplement the soil's nutrients. Avoid over-applying fertilizer, as this can lead to salt buildup and injury to the plant.
Pruning for Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce requires minimal pruning. However, if you notice any dead or diseased stems or leaves, remove them immediately to prevent the spread of disease. You can also prune back any overly long or leggy stems to encourage a fuller, more compact plant. Prune in late winter or early spring before the plant begins to bloom.
Propagation of Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce
Carpobrotus edulis (L.) L.Bolus var. rubescens Druce can be propagated by various methods depending on the grower's preference. These methods include:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the common methods used to propagate the Carpobrotus edulis. To propagate through seeds, growers must first collect ripe seeds from the plants. The seeds should be sown in well-draining and fertile soil. Germination usually occurs within two weeks, and the seedlings require regular watering and fertilization. To increase the chances of successful germination, the grower may add rooting hormone to the soil. After approximately six months, the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Carpobrotus edulis can be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from young and healthy plants and at least three inches long. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in well-draining soil, and kept in a warm and humid environment. Regular watering is necessary for the first couple of weeks to encourage the development of roots. After the roots are established, the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location in a container or in a garden.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is usually carried out during the plant's dormant period in autumn or early spring. The Carpobrotus edulis plant is dug out of the ground with a shovel, and the root ball is divided into several pieces. Each piece should have healthy roots and a few stems. The pieces are then transplanted to their individual locations in containers or in a garden. Adequate watering should be done until the plant establishes in its new environment.
Growers must ensure that the propagated Carpobrotus edulis is kept in a sunny location, watered regularly and kept free from pests and diseases.
Disease Management
Carpobrotus edulis is relatively resistant to diseases but is still vulnerable to fungal and bacterial infections. The following are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Botrytis Blight
- Root Rot
- Leaf Spot
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove and destroy any infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease. Moreover, fungicides and bactericides can be used to control fungal and bacterial infections. However, the use of chemicals should be done as a last resort and must be used cautiously.
Pest Management
Carpobrotus edulis can be attacked by several pests, including:
- Mealybugs
- Scale insects
- Spider mites
To manage these pests, it is important to periodically inspect the plant and remove any infested plant parts. Pruning infected leaves can help limit pest populations. Furthermore, the use of natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be effective in controlling pests. If the infestation is severe, the use of insecticides may be necessary. However, it should be used cautiously, and the label instructions must be followed carefully to prevent any harm to the plant or surrounding environment.
