Carpobrotus muirii

Carpobrotus muirii

Common Names

Dwergsuurvy (afrikaans)
Dwarf Sour Fig (english)

Taxonomy

Family AIZOACEAE
Genus Carpobrotus
Species muirii
SA Plant Number
Basionym Carpobrotus muirii

Description

Carpobrotus muirii is a hardy, evergreen, succulent, drought-resistant, spreading groundcover that has narrow, triangular-shaped, fleshy leaves.

It bears large, vygie-like, purple flowers in spring and summer (August to February). The large fruits are edible and used in curries, jams and preserves.

This plant provides habitat for lizards and toads, attracts butterflies and is good tortoise food. It also has many medicinal uses. This plant is becoming increasingly rare due to habitat destruction. It is useful for retaining soil on exposed embankments and for soil stabilisation as it grows fast and roots at the nodes.

Although this is a Western Cape plant it grows well in Gauteng. Plant in well-drained soil in full sun.

Size: 15cm

Wildlife

Habitant:

This plant provides habitat for lizards and toads, attracts butterflies.

Uses

Medicinal:

 

It has many medicinal uses .

Edible:

 

It is good food for tortoises 

Distribution

western cape

Habitat:
Strandveld

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