Hottentot fig
Llez, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sour fig or Hottentot fig, is a fast-growing, mat-forming succulent in the fig-marigold family (Aizoaceae). Native to South Africa, it thrives in coastal environments, tolerating sandy soils, drought, and salt spray. Its fleshy, triangular leaves store water, while its large, yellow flowers attract pollinators.
The Hottentot-fig is common in Mediterranean and temperate regions. It plays a key role in erosion control and habitat stabilization. Its edible fruits are used in preserves and traditional remedies, while its vigorous growth makes it a popular ground cover.
Names
Scientific
Carpobrotus edulis
English
Highway ice plant
Hottentot fig
Ice plant
Sour fig
Vygie
Dutch
Hottentotvijg
German
Essbare Mittagsblume
Gelbe Mittagsblume
Hexenfinger
Hottentottenfeige
Pferdefeige
Taxonomy
Order
Caryophyllales
Family
Aizoaceae
Genus
Carpobrotus
Species
Carpobrotus edulis (Hottentot fig)
Crop categories
Arid crops
Fruits
Mediterranean crops
Minor crops
Subtropical crops
Wild-harvested crops
Pictures
Hottentot fig
Tony Rebelo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Flower of Hottentot fig
Alvesgaspar, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
