Carpobrotus acinaciformis aka Eland's Sour Fig

Taxonomy

Carpobrotus acinaciformis, also known as Elands sourfig, Elandssuurvy or Sally-my-handsome, is a succulent perennial of the family Aizoaceae, native to South Africa. This evergreen plant can grow up to 0.1m (0ft 4in) by 1m (3ft 3in) and is suitable for light (sandy) soils that are well-drained and nutrient-poor. It can grow in soils with an acidic, neutral, or basic (alkaline) pH and can tolerate saline soils. The plant prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. It cannot grow in the shade and prefers abundant sunlight, thriving best when placed less than 3 feet from a window. Elands Sourfig is hermaphroditic, with both male and female organs, and is pollinated by bees. It flowers from May to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure and is considered a super rare houseplant that needs very little water to thrive.

Common names

Eland's Sour Fig, Sally My Handsome, Red Hottentot Fig, Hottentot Fig

How to care for Eland's Sour Fig

Difficulty

Eland's Sour Fig presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Eland's Sour Fig does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Lighting

Eland's Sour Fig thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Red Hottentot Fig.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Eland's Sour Fig to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Eland's Sour Fig’s native range is S. Africa - Cape Province. Naturalized in Britain[1].


More info:
Wikipedia