Overview
Carpobrotus subulatus (Haw.) N.E.Br. is a flowering plant species from the family Aizoaceae. This plant is commonly known as "Sour fig," "Ice plant," "Hottentot fig," or "Sea fig" in English. It is also known by its Afrikaans names "Suurvy," "Kukumakranka," and "Suurvytjie" in South Africa.
Origin
Carpobrotus subulatus is indigenous to the coastal areas of South Africa. This plant is common in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. It has also been introduced to other countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Europe, North America, and Asia.
Appearance
Carpobrotus subulatus is a succulent plant that grows up to 0.5m high and can spread up to 2m wide. This plant has long, thick, triangular leaves, which are bluish-grey in color and measure 5-20 cm long. It produces showy, daisy-like flowers that can be red, pink, purple, orange, or yellow and bloom between August and December.
Uses
Carpobrotus subulatus has various uses. In South Africa, the sour fig is harvested and used for its edible fruit. The fruit is eaten raw and is said to be sweet and sour. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes and is said to treat ailments such as heartburn, indigestion, and fever. Additionally, the plant is used for soil stabilization and erosion control in revegetation projects along highways, parking areas, and other disturbed sites. However, the plant is also considered to be an invasive weed in some countries due to its tolerance of drought, sea spray, and poor soils.
Light Requirements
The Carpobrotus subulatus plant prefers full sun exposure to grow properly. It can withstand partial shade but it may reduce the number of flowers created by the plant. It is important to provide a location that will receive sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The Carpobrotus subulatus plant thrives in warm temperatures but can tolerate cool temperatures. Temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) are optimal for its growth, but it can handle temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C) for short periods.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is preferred for the Carpobrotus subulatus plant. It grows best in sandy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7). However, this plant is known to be tolerant of a wide range of soils and can grow in nutrient-poor soils, including those with high levels of salt, as it has adapted to coastal environments. Regular watering is necessary to maintain proper growth and soil moisture, especially during the early development stage. It is also important to avoid planting this species in heavy soils that can retain too much water and cause root suffocation.
Cultivation methods
Carpobrotus subulatus is a hardy plant that can withstand drought conditions and is thus quite easy to cultivate. It can be grown in a wide range of soils that drain well, including sandy soils and rocky terrains. The plant can also tolerate salt sprays, making it suitable for coastal gardens. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds. If growing from seeds, sow them in a pot or seedling tray, and keep them in a warm, bright spot until they germinate.
Watering needs
Although Carpobrotus subulatus is a drought-resistant plant, it still requires regular watering. The plant needs to be watered deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry. It is essential to water the plant at the base and avoid getting water on the leaves. Overwatering can cause root rot and make the plant susceptible to pests and diseases.
Fertilization
Carpobrotus subulatus does not require much fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in spring to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Any organic fertilizer, such as compost or manure, can also be added to the soil during cultivation. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive growth and poor flowering.
Pruning
Carpobrotus subulatus does not need much pruning. However, removing dead flowers and cutting back any damaged or diseased growth can help to encourage new growth. If the plant starts to become too large for the area, it can be pruned back to maintain its shape and size.
Propagation of Carpobrotus subulatus
Carpobrotus subulatus is a succulent plant that can be propagated in several ways. The most common methods of propagation are by seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Carpobrotus subulatus produces small, black, hard-coated seeds that are easily collected in late summer or early fall. The seeds can be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of sand. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in a warm, bright location. Germination usually occurs within two to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings taken from the tips of healthy stems are an easy and quick way to propagate Carpobrotus subulatus. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a day or two before being planted in well-draining soil. They should be kept in a bright location out of direct sunlight and watered sparingly until they root, which usually takes about four to six weeks.
Propagation by Division
Carpobrotus subulatus can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in spring when the plant is actively growing. The plant can be carefully dug up and the roots and stems separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and at least one stem with foliage. The divided sections can be planted in well-draining soil and watered sparingly until they are established.
Overall, Carpobrotus subulatus is an easy plant to propagate, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike.
Disease and Pest Management for Carpobrotus subulatus
Carpobrotus subulatus is a succulent plant that is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, like all plants, certain factors can trigger diseases and pests in this species. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Carpobrotus subulatus and ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Carpobrotus subulatus is root rot. Root rot results from over-watering the plant or planting it in poorly-draining soil. This condition is characterized by wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid watering the plant excessively.
Another disease that affects Carpobrotus subulatus is leaf spot. This condition is characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves. Leaf spot is caused by a fungal infection, and it can spread quickly, especially in humid conditions. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and improve air circulation around the plant.
Lastly, leaf burn can also affect Carpobrotus subulatus. Leaf burn is caused by exposure to sunlight or chemicals such as herbicides. The plant's leaves dry up and become brown, eventually leading to the death of the plant. To prevent leaf burn, ensure that the plant is not exposed to intense sunlight for long periods and avoid using herbicides near the plant.
Pests
One of the most common pests that may affect Carpobrotus subulatus is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that suck plant sap, leading to stunted growth and weakened stems. To manage mealybugs, use a soft brush to remove the insects, prune affected stems, and spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
Scale insects can also infest Carpobrotus subulatus. They affect the plant's stems, leaves, and branches, leading to yellowing, wilting, and eventual death. To manage scale insects, remove affected plant parts and spray the plant with a solution of water and neem oil.
Lastly, spider mites can also attack Carpobrotus subulatus. Spider mites are barely visible, and they suck plant sap, causing mottled leaves and eventually defoliation. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant, prune affected parts, and use an organic pesticide such as insecticidal soap.
