Most Unwanted: Hottentot fig
Carpobrotus edulis
Habitat: Terrestrial
Threat: Threatens rare species
Status: Established
Carpobrotus edulis, or Hottentot Fig, is an aggressive invader of coastal habitats on the drier eastern coasts of Ireland, and totally smothers indigenous maritime plant communities. It is a spreading flat growing succulent, forming dense mats. Roots from the nodes with horizontal stems that curve upwards. Numerous leaves arise from the stems which are triangular in shape. Grass green in colour with magenta or yellow solitary flowers having a yellow centre.
What is it?
In Ireland Hottentot fig is found on the drier eastern coasts where it prefers full sun sandy ground, on loose sand dunes or cliffs been able to tolerate increased salt concentrations. Impacts are seen in sand dunes and coastal grass lands. It is not frost tolerant.
Impact
Forms dense monospecific thickets leading to the loss of biodiversity threatening smaller and often rare species.
Impact on the natural processes of disturbance and change in dune environments while also reducing the pH of the soil and thus impacting on the nutrient cycling have also been documented elsewhere.
Where is it from?
Originally from South Africa but the species has been introduced to many parts of the world and Europe as an ornamental. The species is also of concern in Britain where it is behaving in an invasive manner and outcompeting native plant species.
Where are they in Ireland?
At present there are probably just 11-12 populations of the species found at several sites around the eastern and southern coast of Ireland ranging from Belfast Lough to Cork Harbour.
How did it get here?
Intentional introduction as garden ornamental. Species is tolerant
How are they spreading in Ireland
Escape from gardens.
Discarded garden waste.
Animal dispersal e.g. gulls using it for nesting material
What you can do
Report all sightings.
