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Groundcovers

Hottentot vy, Sour Fig

Carpobrotus edulis

A hardy, trailing succulent groundcover with edible fruits, medicinal leaves, yellow~pink flowers.

Quick Care Summary

Light Full sun to Partial Shade.
Water Low
Mature size 20–30cm high x 70–200cm width
Frost Semi Frost Sensitive
Difficulty Easy
Flowering Late winter to Spring

How to Grow and Care

  • It thrives in various environments, including sandy areas, dunes, and embankments, and is often used for stabilizing sandy areas and creating fire-resistant barriers.
  • The plant is also known for its ability to attract small creatures and its use as a first-aid plant due to its edible fruits.
  • Idea for Parking and Shopping mall Gardens, Slope rehabilitation and Sandy warm areas.

Best Uses

  • Outdoor garden
  • Patio / container

Growth and Size

  • Height: 20–30 cm
  • Width: 70–200 cm
  • Growth rate: Fast
  • Foliage: Fleshy Green

Climate Suitability

  • Soil condition: Well-draining sandy soil.
  • Temperature: Warm & dry.
  • Watering: Drought Hardy.
  • Watering: Hardy & versatile.
  • Watering: Sensitive to waterlogged soil.
  • Wind: Tolerant

Maintenance Level

  • Low maintenance.
  • Minimal feeding required
  • Seasonal maintenance
  • Prune after winter - Dead Branches and Leaves.
  • Fertilize once a Year with Slow-Release fertilizer
  • Not Prone to pest but can be acceptable to Mealy bug in Tropical conditions.

Additional Information

  • Indigenous to South Africa
  • Flowers open in bright sunlight and close at night.
  • The fruits are fleshy, indehiscent, and edible
  • The leaf juice has antiseptic and healing properties
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