Water
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods, especially in winter, to prevent fungal issues.
Also known as Ice Plant · Sour Fig
Carpobrotus deliciosus, the Delicious Sourfig, is a succulent groundcover with fleshy leaves and vibrant pink to purple flowers, native to South Africa.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering.
Allow soil to dry out between waterings
25% intensity
Infrequent deep watering is preferred.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Tolerates heat, sensitive to frost
75% intensity
Thrives in warm to hot conditions. Protect from freezing temperatures.
Low fertilizer needs
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced, low-nitrogen formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during cooler, dormant periods, especially in winter, to prevent fungal issues.
Prune to maintain shape, control spread, and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pruning also encourages bushier growth. This can be done after flowering or in early spring before new growth begins. Avoid heavy pruning.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings in spring or summer, allowing them to callous over for a day or two before planting in well-draining soil. Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks.
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Use a fast-draining succulent or cactus mix. Repot in spring.
Ensure the new pot has drainage holes and is only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Delicious Sourfig (Carpobrotus deliciosus)
Where Delicious Sourfig (Carpobrotus deliciosus) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Carpobrotus |
| Species | Carpobrotus deliciosus |
Similar in genus Carpobrotus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data