Carpobrotus mellei (L.Bolus) L.Bolus

Leaf Coloration

Carpobrotus mellei (L.Bolus) L.Bolus typically has glaucous green leaves, which sometimes turn reddish along their edges or angles.

Leaf Curvature

The leaves are relatively straight, with most curvature occurring at the apex.

Leaf Apex Features

The apex often features a serrated, reddish keel and a mucro.

Leaf Cross-Section Shape

Leaves are also somewhat flattened laterally, which gives them an isosceles triangle shape in cross-section.

Flower Color

Its flowers are usually pale pink or purple.

Stigma Characteristics

The stigmas are very long, and in places extend up above the stamens.

Ovary and Receptacle Shape

The center of the top of the ovary is raised, and the receptacle is barrel-shaped to turbiniform.

Genus Common Name and Habitat

Carpobrotus, commonly called sour-fig, species are generally coastal plants.

Species Distribution Rarity

Of the seven Carpobrotus species native to South Africa, this is the only one that naturally occurs inland in mountain fynbos.

Specific Habitat Range

Its natural habitat is fynbos vegetation in the Western Cape's mountain ranges, specifically the Hottentots Holland, Langeberg, and Swartberg mountains.

Fruit Ecology

Its edible fruits are grazed by tortoises and other southern African animals.