Carpobrotus edulis is native to South Africa. It is also known as the Cape Fig, Hottentot-fig, ice plant, and in South Africa as the sour fig on account of its edible fruit. The genus name, Carpobrotus, is derived from the Greek karpos "fruit" and brotos "edible". The edible Cape Fig leaves are edible, as are its fruit. The fruit is edible. In South Africa the sour fig's ripe fruit are gathered and either eaten fresh or made into a very jam. Hardy in zones 8-10. Also makes an easy to grow house plant in full sun. Water when dry.