How to Grow South African Giant
South African Giant
Carpobrotus edulis
succulentSouth African Giant is a sprawling succulent groundcover known for its large, fleshy triangular leaves and vibrant daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, yellow, or purple. Also called Hottentot Fig or Ice Plant, it is drought-tolerant and produces edible fruits that taste slightly sweet and tangy. This hardy perennial is popular in coastal and Mediterranean gardens for erosion control and ornamental appeal.
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Example South African Giant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant South African Giant
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest South African Giant
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; tolerates brief freezes to 20°F (-6°C) but prefers frost-free climates
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Establishment (Rooting)
2-4 weeksNewly planted cuttings or transplants develop root systems and begin producing new growth; foliage may appear slightly stressed initially
Keep soil barely moist; avoid watering for first 2-3 weeks to allow wound callusing. Place in bright, indirect light initially, then transition to full sun.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 monthsPlant produces new trailing stems with fleshy, triangular leaves; vigorous spreading occurs along ground or containers
Water moderately during spring and early summer. Provide full sun for healthy leaf color. Fertilize sparingly with low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer if desired.
Flowering
2-3 months (spring through early summer)Large, showy daisy-like flowers (1.5-2 inches across) emerge from leaf axils in bright pink, magenta, yellow, or purple; flowers open in morning and close at night
Maintain regular sun exposure for best bloom production. Reduce watering slightly. Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
Fruiting
4-6 weeksAfter pollination (by insects or hand), flowers develop into fig-like fruits that are initially green, then ripen to reddish or brownish; fruits are edible with sweet-tart flavor
Maintain dry conditions; reduce watering significantly. Allow fruits to ripen fully on plant for best flavor.
Dormancy/Senescence
3-4 monthsIn fall and winter, growth slows dramatically; foliage may take on reddish tones; flowering and fruiting diminish
Water minimally; allow soil to remain dry. Provide full sun if possible. Withhold fertilizer during this period.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove heavily infested stems; improve air circulation to prevent recurrence
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Scrape off by hand or use horticultural oil spray; prune affected stems if infestation is severe
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Spray foliage with water to dislodge; use miticide or neem oil if populations persist; increase humidity slightly around plant
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Prevent by ensuring excellent drainage and avoiding overwatering; remove affected plant sections and repot in fresh, dry soil if possible
Uses
Edible Fruits & Jams
CulinaryThe fruits have a sweet-tart flavor reminiscent of figs and can be eaten fresh or processed into jams, compotes, and beverages. In South Africa and the Mediterranean, the fruit has been traditionally harvested and used in cooking. [source]
Erosion Control & Groundcover
HouseholdThe plant's dense, spreading growth habit and deep root system make it excellent for stabilizing sandy or sloped landscapes, preventing soil erosion, and reducing maintenance in difficult-to-water areas. [source]
Coastal & Mediterranean Landscaping
OrnamentalWith vibrant flowers and attractive trailing foliage, South African Giant is a popular ornamental choice for xeriscaping, coastal gardens, and Mediterranean-style landscapes where salt tolerance and drought resilience are valued. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalIn traditional South African and Mediterranean herbal medicine, the plant has been used topically for skin irritations and minor wounds, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pollinator & Wildlife Support
WildlifeThe bright, abundant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, providing important nectar and pollen sources in arid and coastal environments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest fruits when they ripen to a reddish or brownish color, typically 4-6 months after flowering ends. Fruits should yield slightly to gentle pressure and separate easily from the stem. Cut fruits with a sharp knife rather than pulling. Peak harvest is late summer through fall. Fruits can be eaten fresh, or made into jams and beverages.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 South African Giant is invasive in parts of California, Australia, and the Mediterranean coast where it outcompetes native coastal vegetation, despite its ornamental and culinary value in home gardens.
- 🌱 The common name 'Ice Plant' refers to the glistening, crystalline-looking cells (called epidermal bladder cells) on the leaves that store water and reflect light, making the foliage shimmer in sunlight.
- 🌱 The fruits were historically called 'Hottentot Figs' by European colonists in South Africa, though the term is now considered outdated; indigenous Khoisan peoples have used the fruit as a food source for centuries.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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