What is Carpobrotus?

Carpobrotus is a related group or genus of plants that are tracing or crawling on the ground. The common names of these species include ice plant and swine. Most species belonging to this genus come from in South Africa, with several species coming from America and Australia. Some species have been introduced into countries where they are not native and are considered invasive because they grow and spread quickly, often leave no space or nutrients for the original plants. The leaves store water reserves, allowing the plant to survive the dry season. Some species, such as c. Edulis , spread quickly and create large, thick blankets commonly exceeding 19 inches (0.48 m) deep. These species prefer sandy, well -drained soil. Many types of carpobrotus are used to reduce soil erosion, especially in coastal areas, because the plants are able to tolerate strong winds, limited nutrients and salt water spray. Plants are also slightly resistant to fire due to their high content inOdy; In conjunction with the fact that these plants grow in a blanket way, they can be used as a medium successful barrier against forest fires and fires.

Due to rapid and aggressive growth, invasive species may have a negative impact on local ecology. For indigenous species, a small place is often left and dense blankets consisting of carpobrotus are usually impenetrable for many indigenous species. Localized extinction of some rare or protected varieties of plants may occur due to the invasive nature of Carpobrotus.

Carpobrotus species have been used for many centuries for their healing properties. Among other things, native nations used Carpobrotus to treat various diseases, including fever, infections and stomach and digestion. Leaf extract was also used to treat sore throat and infections of the mouth and neck. Leaf liquid is antiseptic and is also used to treat cuts, arms, burns, skin conditionno and allergies. Syrup made of Carpobrotus plants is a very old medicine for use as a laxative.

Carpobrotus plants provide a valuable source of water and nutrition for a number of small animals such as turtles, rats and rabbits, along with larger animals including deer and baboons. Snakes are looking for shelter and are waiting for an assault of potential prey from densely packed leaves. Slugs, snails and lizards are also looking for leaf shelter during hot, dry season.