Karkalla (Carpobrotus rossii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Karkalla on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Aizoaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 14 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Karkalla
Carpobrotus rossii, known as Australian pigface or 'zeebanaantjes' in Dutch, is a trailing succulent native to Australia. Its fleshy, triangular-sectioned leaves form a dense green mat, dotted in spring and summer with large, vibrant pink or purple flowers. It is ideal for covering large areas of ground in coastal gardens, rockeries, or slopes, adding an exotic and resilient touch.
Native range
Australia, particularly along the southern coasts
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun and tolerates drought conditions and poor soils, provided they have good drainage. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, especially in winter. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it is preferable to underwater than overwater. It is not demanding regarding substrate, but prefers sandy or slightly stony ones.
How to save a dying Karkalla
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, and flaccid leaves (underwatering); dark spots or rot at the base (overwatering).
- First aid
- If soft, water thoroughly; if rotten, remove affected parts and repot in dry, well-draining substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in humid or cold climates, quickly rots the roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's very resilient and recovers well from drought, less so from waterlogging.