[5] C. edulis contains rutin, neohesperidin, hyperoside, catechin and ferulic acid; these contribute to the antibacterial[8] properties of the plant.

[9] The species is easily confused with its close relatives, including the more diminutive and less aggressive Carpobrotus chilensis (sea fig), with which it hybridizes readily.

Puff adders and other snakes, such as the Cape cobra, are often found in Carpobrotus clumps, where they ambush the small rodents attracted by the fruits.

[6] Carpobrotus edulis has naturalised in many other regions throughout the world, and is an invasive species in several parts, notably Australia, California and the Mediterranean, all of which have similar climates.

The plant exhibits a high rate of clonal growth, a trait that is commonly associated with successful invasive species.

[11][12] Invasive ice plant also displays high levels of phenotypic plasticity, allowing it to best integrate into varied environmental conditions such as coastal cliff ranges as well as nutrient-rich forests.

[15][17] Analysis of chloroplast DNA has revealed a large amount of genetic similarities between C. edulis and C. chilensis, indicating that the two may share a common ancestor.

Its succulent foliage, bright yellow flowers, and resistance to some harsh coastal climatic conditions (salt) have also made it a favored garden plant.

[citation needed] The ice plant is still abundant along highways, beaches, on military bases, and in other public and private landscapes.

Because of the high water content of shoot tissues, burning of live or dead plants is not a useful method of control or disposal.

In South Africa the sour fig's ripe fruit are gathered and either eaten fresh or made into a very tart jam.

[citation needed] The leaves can be ingested orally for digestive problems or the juice can be sucked out to help a sore throat.

[25] The juice can also be mixed into a lotion base and used for external issues such as ringworm, bruises, sunburns, and cracked lips.