Overview
Carpobrotus aequilaterus is a matforming, trailing shrubs in the genus Carpobrotus, part of the Aizoaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Carpobrotus aequilaterus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include ground cover and coastal gardens.
About
Carpobrotus aequilaterus, common names: angled pigface, Chilean pigface, This species is thought to have originated in southern Africa (or possibly South America) and a naturalised weed elsewhere. However, according to VicFlora it is native to South Africa, It is also known as the sea fig. The plant grows along the coast from sea level and up to 100 metres higher. It can be found in Chile, California, Mexico, and Australia. Grow it in full sun and loam and sand soil. In UK gardens it is half-hardy and may need winter protection in colder areas (RHS H3). It works well for ground cover and coastal gardens. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Carpobrotus aequilaterus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Carpobrotus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Carpobrotus aequilaterus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Matforming, Trailing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Ground cover, Coastal gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Carpobrotus aequilaterus
- Propagation
- Seed, Stem cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Carpobrotus aequilaterus?
Carpobrotus aequilaterus prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Carpobrotus aequilaterus need?
Carpobrotus aequilaterus grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Carpobrotus aequilaterus hardy in the UK?
Carpobrotus aequilaterus has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Carpobrotus aequilaterus?
Seed, Stem cuttings.
