Carpobrotus edulis

Sour fig

Carpobrotus eduilis, commonly known as the sea parsley, is a fascinating marine macroalga valued for its diverse bioactive properties. Rich in polysaccharides and antioxidants, this medicinal plant offers significant potential in pharmacology. Research explores its therapeutic applications, particularly in managing inflammation and supporting metabolic health through its unique nutritional profile.

  • Scientific name: Carpobrotus edulis
  • Family: Aizoaceae
  • Native range: Europe

Taxonomical Classification

This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and the class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae, it falls under the order Caryophyllales and the family Aizoaceae. Its specific taxonomic designation is within the genus Carpobrotus, identifying the species as Carpobrotus edulis.

Rank Classification Source
Kingdom Plantae WCVP
Phylum Streptophyta WCVP
Class Equisetopsida WCVP
Subclass Magnoliidae WCVP
Order Caryophyllales WCVP
Family Aizoaceae WCVP
Genus Carpobrotus WCVP

Common Names

This plant, known scientifically as Carpobrotus edulis, is recognized by various regional names across different languages. In Russian, it is referred to as Карпобротус съедобный, while in Dutch, it is commonly called Hottentotvijg. In Portuguese, it goes by the name Chorão-das-praias, and in German, it is known as Essbare Mittagsblume. Similarly, in Swedish, it is identified as Gul middagsblomma.
Language Common Name Source
ru Карпобротус съедобный Wikidata
nl Hottentotvijg Wikidata
pt Chorão-das-praias Wikidata
de Essbare Mittagsblume Wikidata
sv Gul middagsblomma Wikidata
zh 莫邪菊 Wikidata
gl Herba do coitelo Wikidata
fa کارپوبروتوس ادولیس Wikidata
cy Ffigysen yr Hotentot Wikidata
aeb-arab شرببّو Wikidata

Distribution

This plant exhibits a diverse geographical distribution across several regions of Europe. In Northern Europe, its presence is documented within Great Britain and Ireland. Moving toward the Mediterranean, it can be found in various parts of Southwestern Europe. Specifically, its range includes the islands of Baleares and Corse. Finally, the species is also distributed throughout France.

Region Area Source
Northern Europe Great Britain WCVP
Northern Europe Ireland WCVP
Southwestern Europe Baleares WCVP
Southwestern Europe Corse WCVP
Southwestern Europe France WCVP
Southwestern Europe Portugal WCVP
Southwestern Europe Spain WCVP
Southeastern Europe Albania WCVP
Southeastern Europe Greece WCVP
Southeastern Europe Italy WCVP

Plant Parts

This plant, Carpobrotus edulis, is a succulent species where the fruits play a significant role in its biological cycle. The fruits are fleshy, berry-like structures that develop from the flowers and are characterized by their ability to store moisture, which is a vital adaptation for survival in coastal and arid environments. These fruits are often used in various traditional contexts and serve as a primary method for seed dispersal, ensuring the plant can spread across sandy terrains.
Total parts
1
Scientific sources
1
Plant Part Sources Confidence
fruits 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Chemicals

Carpobrotus edulis has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include resveratrol.

Total chemicals
1
Scientific sources
1

Most Reported Compounds

Compound Sources Confidence
resveratrol 1 ★☆☆☆☆

Medicinal Uses

Carpobrotus edulis has 2 reported medicinal uses identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include antioxidant, inflammation.

Total uses
2
Scientific sources
2

Most Reported Uses

Use Sources Confidence
antioxidant 1 ★☆☆☆☆
inflammation 1 ★☆☆☆☆