edulis is easily confused with its close relative, the more diminutive and less aggressive Carpobrotus chilensis, and the two species hybridize readily throughout their ranges in California. The large 2.5 to 6 inch diameter flowers of C. edulis are yellow or light pink, whereas the smaller, 1.5 to 2.5 inch diameter C. chilensis flowers are deep magenta. Large cells in the leaves sparkle like granules of ice in the sun, giving the plant its common name. The common name "Ice Plant" is sometimes also used for other related plant species, including Delosperma cooperi and Lampranthus, which also belong to the plant family Aizoaceae and share in common a South African origin. The name is, unfortunately, used for plants in other families, as well, including Sedum spectabile (Crassulaceae).