Carpobrotus

Family. Aizoaceae.

Origin. South Africa.

Description. The genus "Carpobrotus" consists of 25 species of low-growing, perennial, succulent plants with creeping stems. When in contact with the ground, the stems take root. The leaves are fleshy, triangular, up to 13 cm long, green, yellowish-green. The flowers are single, up to 15 cm in diameter, resembling asters, with a yellow center, with many yellow, cream or pink petals. The buds open in the morning. After flowering, fleshy fruits up to 4 cm in diameter are formed, which turn yellow when ripe.

Height. Individual plants form dense mats with a diameter of up to 3 m and a height of up to 30 cm. Carpobrotus can grow stems up to 50 cm in length within a year.

Temperature conditions

In the warm season, normal room temperature is suitable for growing carpobrotus; during the winter dormant period, a cool temperature of about 10° C is suitable.

Reproduction

Cuttings about 20 cm long take root easily in damp sand in summer. Dry the cut area for 5 - 7 days. Seeds can be sown in spring and summer in wet sand. 

Lighting

Place the carpobrotus in a sunny location with direct sunlight in the morning and evening. On hot summer days, arrange some shading. 

Growing

One of the most unpretentious plants, which will be easier to kill with excessive care than with neglect. In summer you can place it outdoors, under shelter from wind and rain. 

Soil

Light, porous, well-drained soil, consisting of turf soil, leaf humus, with the addition of coarse river sand and perlite to improve drainage. 

Feeding

Carpobrotus is fed monthly with fertilizers for cacti and succulents in half the concentration in spring and summer. In autumn and winter, feeding is stopped. 

Purpose

It is good to use as a ground cover plant, which also blooms.

Flowering time

From July to November, but with good care it can bloom throughout the year. 

Air humidity

The succulent does not require additional moisture and easily tolerates the dry atmosphere of living spaces, no spraying is required. Ensure good air movement around the flower, while avoiding cold drafts.

Watering

Water moderately during active growth, allowing the top 5 cm of soil to dry out before each subsequent watering. In winter, keep almost dry. When watering, try not to get water on the leaves and stems of the plant. 

Transfer

Replant every year, in spring, before the growing season. If necessary, increase the size of the pot during replanting.

Pests and diseases

High air humidity will lead to leaf and stem rot, and bacterial leaf rot. Excess nutrients lead to leaf wilting. Among the harmful insects, thrips and mealybugs can attack the flower.

Note

The ripe fruits of carpobrotus are edible.