Items 1 to 15 of 15 total
Items 1 to 15 of 15 total
Ice Plants
Uses:
- Rock Gardens
- Slopes
- Ground Cover
- Containers & Planters
Features:
- Mat-Forming, Evergreen Foliage
- Drought Tolerant
- Abundant Daisy-Like Blooms
Sunlight:
- Full Sun
- 6+ Hours of Direct Sun
Growing Zones:
- 5-10
- What is My Zone?
Ice Plant, also known as Delosperma, is a hardy perennial with succulent foliage that stays evergreen in most climates. The ground-hugging foliage trails and spreads to form a thick mat. It is covered in bright daisy-like blooms for most of the summer. Plant it in full sun and well-drained soil, and it will bloom and thrive with minimal assistance.
About Ice Plants
Genus
Species
Family
Delosperma
Cooperi,nubigenum, floribundum, 'Fire Spinner', Wheels of Wonder', kongweanum, basuticum, zanthedes
Aizoaceae
Common Names:
Hardy Ice Plant
Native To:
South Africa, Namibia, and parts of Lesotho
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Evergreen, Semi-Evergreen, Herbaceous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
5–9
Flower Color:
Flower Bloom Time:
Early to Late Summer
Growth Habit:
Spreading, Mounded, Trailing
Attracts:
Bees, Hummingbirds, Butterflies
Tolerates:
Drought, Heat, Harsh Winters
Resists:
Deer, Rabbits, Diseases, Pests
How To Use Ice Plants In The Garden
Ice plants, known botanically as Delosperma, are hardy perennials featuring succulent foliage that remains evergreen in most climates. Their ground-hugging leaves spread to form a dense mat, adorned with abundant daisy-like blooms throughout the summer. These plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal assistance once established.
Ice plants serve as excellent ground covers due to their spreading growth habit. They pair well with companions like blue fescue, coreopsis, and lamb’s ear, creating visually appealing contrasts. Additionally, their drought tolerance makes them suitable for rock gardens and areas with dry conditions. When planting, space them 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for proper growth and coverage.
Ice Plants Care
Plant ice plants in full sun, ensuring they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use sandy, well-draining soil, avoiding clay substrates. Water deeply every one to two weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time or shortly after if needed.
Trim winter-damaged stems in early spring to maintain appearance. In colder climates, cease fertilizing and reduce watering at the end of summer to harden off the plant for winter. For container growth, select pots with adequate drainage and use a cactus-succulent mix or loose potting mix.
Learn More About Ice Plants
