Carpobrotus rossii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Carpobrotus rossii |
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| Flower, Cape Raoul, Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania, Australia | |
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Carpobrotus
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| Species: |
rossii
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Carpobrotus rossii is a special plant that grows close to the ocean in southern Australia. It's a type of succulent, which means its leaves are thick and juicy, helping it store water. This plant also acts as a groundcover, spreading out low to the ground.
People call Carpobrotus rossii by many fun names. Some common ones are karkalla, pig face, sea fig, and beach bananas. Sometimes, it can be mistaken for another plant called the rounded noon-flower. That plant is also sometimes called "karkalla" or "beach bananas" in food markets.
What Does Karkalla Look Like?
Karkalla plants have thick, juicy leaves. These leaves are usually about 3.5 to 10 centimeters (1.4 to 4 inches) long. They are also about 1 centimeter (0.4 inches) wide. The leaves are often curved, but sometimes they can be straight.
The flowers of the karkalla plant are a pretty light purple color. They can grow quite large, up to 6 centimeters (2.4 inches) wide. After the flowers, the plant grows round fruits. These fruits are purplish-red and are about 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) long and 1.5 centimeters (0.6 inches) wide.
Where Does Karkalla Grow?
You can find Carpobrotus rossii in several parts of Australia. It grows in the states of Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, and Victoria.
This plant is very tough and can handle salty conditions. Because of this, it often grows all year round in big patches on sand dunes right next to the ocean. Its strong nature helps it survive in these windy, salty places.
How Is Karkalla Used?
For a very long time, Aboriginal people have eaten the fruit of the karkalla plant. They enjoy it fresh, or they dry it to eat later. It's a traditional food source.
The leaves of the karkalla plant are also edible and have a salty taste. It is said that Aboriginal people sometimes ate these salty leaves with meat. It's important not to confuse these edible leaves with those of the rounded noon-flower, even though that plant's leaves are also eaten and sometimes sold as "karkalla."
Scientists have also studied extracts from the karkalla plant. They found that these extracts might have helpful properties. For example, they could help protect cells, affect blood clotting, and reduce swelling in the body.
See also
In Spanish: Carpobrotus rossii para niños
