Aizoaceae

Mesembryanthemum crystallinum

Mesembryanthemum guerichianum seedling IMG 8167-cropped

Aizoaceae

The Aizoaceae, commonly known as the fig-marigold family or ice plant family, is a large family of flowering plants comprising approximately 135 genera and about 1,900 species. The family is predominantly found in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in South Africa, but species are also found in Australia, New Zealand, and South America.

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Description

Members of the Aizoaceae family are typically succulent plants, meaning they have thick, fleshy parts adapted to store water. These plants are often found in arid or semi-arid environments. The leaves are usually opposite, simple, and entire, and they often have a unique, crystalline appearance due to the presence of bladder cells that store water.

The flowers of Aizoaceae are usually solitary and can be quite showy. They are typically actinomorphic (radially symmetrical) and have numerous stamens. The flowers are often brightly colored, ranging from white to yellow, pink, and purple. The fruit is usually a capsule that opens when wet, a characteristic known as hygrochasy.

Aptenia cordifolia flower leaves

Carpobrotus specimen with pink flowers

Cheiridopsis denticulata

Taxonomy

The family Aizoaceae is divided into several subfamilies, including:

• Aizooideae
• Mesembryanthemoideae
• Ruschioideae
• Sesuvioideae

Ecology

Aizoaceae species are well-adapted to harsh environments. They are often found in deserts and other dry areas where they play a crucial role in the ecosystem. These plants are known for their ability to survive in nutrient-poor soils and can often be found in rocky or sandy habitats.

Cultivation and Uses

Many species within the Aizoaceae family are popular in horticulture due to their attractive flowers and foliage. They are often used in rock gardens, as ground cover, or in container gardening. Some well-known genera include:

• Carpobrotus (commonly known as ice plant)
• Delosperma
• Lithops (commonly known as living stones)
• Mesembryanthemum

Notable Species

• Carpobrotus edulis - commonly known as the highway ice plant
• Lithops karasmontana - a species of living stones
• Delosperma cooperi - known for its vibrant purple flowers

Related Pages

• Succulent plant
• Desert
• Horticulture
• Flowering plant