Sea Fig

Carpobrotus aequilaterus

Physical Characteristics

Carpobrotus aequilaterus is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Southern N. America - California, Mexico. Australia - New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Leaves Edible Uses: Fruit - raw[257]. They are said to remotely suggest the flavour of strawberry[183]. Leaves - baked[183]. We find them too mucilaginous to be enjoyable[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known