Photo of Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR] flower by Franco Folini

Photo by Franco Folini

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Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR]

Also Known As

  • Mesembryanthemum chilensis
  • Sea Fig

Plant type

cactus / succulent, groundcover

size

  • H: 3"-6"
  • W: 72"-144"

planting zones

  • 8b-12

Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR] plant details

Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR] is an evergreen groundcover cactus / succulent with blue and green foliage. In fall and summer magenta and red flowers emerge. Features glaucous texture. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and low water. Does well in gritty, lean and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR]

Plant type: groundcover cactus / succulent
Plant family: aizoaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 72 IN - 144 IN - wide, 3 IN - 6 IN - tall
Flowers: magenta and red blooms in fall and summer
Uses: container plant, gravel garden, long-blooming, rock garden, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR]

USDA Zones: 8b - 12
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: low
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: gritty, lean and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Our collection of this carpet forming ice plant often seen in dunes from the central Oregon coast south to…Chile. Though some have surmised it is actually an introduction from South Africa, most data says no. Squared, succulent leaves, to 3", with 2” flowers of cerise on this form. Wonderful pot plant or ground cover in coastal situations. Full to part sun with dry summers. Frost hardy to 18 - 20 °F, upper USDA zone 8.

Gardening facts about Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR] plant

How to Grow Carpobrotus chilensis [Pistol River, OR]

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly sun
  • Water Needs

    • low
  • Soil Needs

    • lean
    • well-drained
    • gritty
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
    • blue
  • Flower Color

    • red
    • magenta
  • Wildlife

    • bees
  • Flower Season

    • fall
    • summer
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
  • Texture

    • glaucous
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