Sweet Hottentot Fig

Carpobrotus deliciosus

Physical Characteristics

Carpobrotus deliciosus is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). 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). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Africa - Cape Province and Riversdale districts.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or used as a garnish for fruit salads[183, 200]. The fruit can also be dried and eaten like candy or made into jams and preserves[183]. There is very little flesh in the fruit and it must be fully ripe otherwise it is very astringent[K].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known