Carpobrotus rossii, commonly known as karkalla or pigface, is a succulent perennial groundcover native to coastal dunes and cliffs of southern Australia. It typically forms dense mats with fleshy, triangular leaves and spreads vigorously across the ground. Karkalla blooms from spring to summer, producing showy, daisy-like light purple to pink flowers that attract pollinators. The plant can reach a height of 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) with an indefinite spread due to its creeping habit.

Karkalla is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to stabilize sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for coastal and xeriscape gardens. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, tolerating poor, sandy substrates. In cultivation, it is used for ground cover, rock gardens, and as an ornamental feature in succulent plantings. It is also known for its edible fruit, which is enjoyed by local wildlife and can be used in jams and desserts. However, gardeners should be cautious as Carpobrotus rossii can become invasive outside its native range, particularly in similar coastal environments. It is generally pest-free but can suffer from fungal diseases in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0