Pigface / Karkalla
Carpobrotus rossii
Carpobrotus is a genus of around 25 succulent species found in coastal areas around the world. Of these, four are native to Australia and are typically seen stabilising sand dunes and cliffs near the ocean. The South African species Carpobrotus edulis has become naturalised in Australia and hybridises readily with Carpobrotus rossii, creating plants that can be difficult to distinguish from the true Australian form. This has conservation implications in some areas, particularly where local flora is under pressure.
Carpobrotus rossii, commonly known as Pigface or Karkalla, is a vigorous, fast-growing native succulent with thick, edible leaves and striking purple daisy-like flowers. A coastal specialist, it forms a dense mat of foliage that roots along the stems, making it ideal for dune stabilisation, verge planting, and waterwise gardens. The edible fruit has a sweet, salty flavour reminiscent of fig, and the leaves are popular in bushfood cuisine.
- Coastal native succulent groundcover | 15–20 cm H × 2–3 m W
- Large purple-pink daisy-like flowers | Spring to summer
- Fleshy, triangular leaves | Green to reddish in sun or drought
- Edible fruit and leaves | Traditional Aboriginal bushfood
- Tolerates drought, salt spray, sandy soils and coastal wind
- Excellent for embankments, retaining walls, containers and poolside beds
- Stabilises sandy soils | Roots at nodes to form dense cover
- Very low maintenance | Fire retardant and frost tolerant once established
In the Garden
Pigface is an outstanding native groundcover for hot, dry, and exposed sites. It thrives in sandy or loamy soil and is well suited to coastal gardens, rockeries, roadside plantings, or between pavers. The plant forms a dense, weed-suppressing mat and provides vibrant seasonal colour. Flowers open only in direct sunlight and may remain closed on dull days.
Edible & Medicinal Uses
The leaves of Carpobrotus rossii are edible and have a pleasantly salty crunch. They can be enjoyed raw in salads, steamed, stir-fried, or pickled, especially alongside seafood or game. The red fruit, about the size of a cherry, is sweet with a salty tang and was a traditional seasonal treat. Leaf juice has been used to relieve insect bites, sunburn and skin irritation. Scientific research has also found antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet activity in plant extracts.
Site Preferences
Choose a position in full sun with sandy, loamy, or well-drained soil. Suitable for poor or saline soils and erosion-prone areas. Once established, it requires almost no watering, and pruning is only necessary to manage spread. Avoid overwatering and excessive shade, which can reduce flowering and cause root rot.
