Ice Plants

Growing Zones

Zones 5-10

Sunlight Requirements

Full Sun

Container Role

Containers & Planters

Features

Evergreen Foliage

Why We Love Ice Plants

Ice Plants (Delosperma) are tough, drought-tolerant groundcovers that spread fast and stay covered in bright daisy-like blooms through summer.

About Ice Plants

Fire Spinner Hardy Ice Plant
Genus
Species
Family
Delosperma
Cooperi, nubigenum, floribundum, basuticum
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:

Purple/Magenta, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Red, White

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 Care

Jewel of Desert Rose Quartz Hardy Iceplant

Ice Plants Companion Plants

Full‑sun exposure, sandy or rocky soil that drains quickly, and only occasional watering keep ice plant healthy. False cypress supplies year‑round green texture while rose of Sharon rises above the succulent carpet, their shared tolerance for heat and limited moisture creating a layered scene that needs little upkeep. Equally drought‑savvy, euphorbia adds spring lime‑toned bracts and upright mass, whereas sedum’s chunky stems and late‑season heads echo the ice plant’s succulent habit yet prolong color well into autumn.

Ice Plants Questions?