Pigface (Carpobrotus virescens) | seeds, 10 pcs.

• Latin name: Carpobrotus virescens
• Danish names: Hottentotfigen, isplante
• English names: Ice plant, pigface

Carpobrotus virescens is a low-growing, creeping succulent from southern Africa, where it grows in sunny and dry areas, often in sandy or well-drained soil. Like other species in the genus, it forms dense, spreading mats with thick, succulent leaves that are well adapted to drought, strong sun, and nutrient-poor conditions.

The species is particularly decorative during the flowering period, when it develops large, daisy-like flowers in bright colors. It resembles Carpobrotus edulis, Carpobrotus acinaciformis, and Carpobrotus dimidiatus, but is a rarer find in cultivation and therefore especially interesting for collectors of South African succulents and drought-tolerant plants.

With its vigorous, creeping growth, Carpobrotus virescens is well-suited as a ground cover in warm and sunny environments, where it can eventually form dense carpets of succulent shoots.

Cultivation and requirements

Carpobrotus virescens thrives best in full sun and prefers:

• very well-drained, preferably sandy or gravelly soil
• sparse to moderate watering
• dry and airy conditions

The plant is well-suited for pots, bowls, rock gardens, and other sunny locations. In Denmark, it is best grown as a potted plant, as it is not fully hardy in cold and wet winter conditions. It should be overwintered in a bright and cool, preferably frost-free, location.

Like other Carpobrotus species, it tolerates drying out far better than constantly moist soil.

Cultivation from seed

Seeds of Carpobrotus virescens are usually relatively easy to sow under warm and bright conditions. For the best result, we recommend:

• sowing in a light, sandy, and well-drained soil mix, such as cactus soil
• only light covering or surface sowing
• temperature of 18–22 °C
• light moisture, without the soil becoming wet
• fertilize with organic cactus fertilizer during the growing season

Germination typically occurs within 1–4 weeks. The young plants usually grow steadily and quickly develop the characteristic succulent leaves. After germination, the plants should be gradually accustomed to stronger sun.

Utility and collector's value

Carpobrotus virescens is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, where it is valued for its ground-covering growth, drought tolerance, and large flowers. It is ideal for collections of South African succulents and for growers who want robust plants with low water requirements.

For those who are already familiar with Carpobrotus edulis, C. acinaciformis, or C. dimidiatus, C. virescens is an exciting supplement that expands the assortment with yet another characterful species from the same genus.

Carpobrotus virescens is an obvious choice for the plant enthusiast who wants a robust and decorative succulent grown from seed – an exciting creeping plant for warm, sunny locations and well-drained conditions.