Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum)

Family: Aizoaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Mesembryanthemum crystallinum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, they are thick and very succulent with a slightly salty tang. — Leaves and stems - raw or cooked.; They can be used as a spinach substitute.; The leaves have an acid flavour, they are thick and very succulent with a slightly salty tang.; They can also be pickled like cucumbers or used as a garnish.

Habitat & North American Range

Maritime sands and salt marshes. (Zone 8)