Ice Plant, or Delosperma nubigenum is a popular evergreen succulent that hails from the mountainous areas of South Africa. This plant is native to Africa, and has become an increasingly popular option for gardeners and horticulturists alike. This unique flower produces bright yellow, daisy-like blooms from spring to fall. The foliage of this plant takes on a bronze carpet look during the winter, offering season-long interest in your garden.
Family
This flowering plant belongs to the Aizoaceae family, commonly known as the ice plant family. This family of plants are native to both South Africa and Southwest Africa. The Aizoaceae family is renowned for their fleshy-leaved succulents and wide array of vibrant flowers.
Plant Type
The Ice Plant is classified as a perennial, meaning it will last for several years if taken care of properly. Perennial plants typically live for more than two years, although the exact life cycle of this plant will depend on the climate it is grown in.
Mature Size
On average, the Ice Plant will reach a height of four to six inches, although this can vary due to the specific conditions in which it is grown.
Sun Exposure
Ice Plants do best when grown in a spot that gets full sun. This means that you should choose an area that has direct exposure to the sun’s rays for most of the day. Planting in a spot that gets partial shade will also work, but it is not ideal for optimal growth and flowering.
Soil Type
This plant does best when planted in well-draining soil. This can be either sandy or loamy. If the soil is too heavy, it is important to add some sand and organic material to help with drainage.
Soil pH
Ice plant prefers a soil with a slightly acidic pH, between five and seven. If the pH is either too high or too low, it can inhibit the health of the plant.
Bloom Time
This evergreen succulent is prized for its continuous blooming throughout the warmer months. During the spring and summer, the blooms are a brilliant yellow.
Flower Color
This plant produces bright yellow blooms that have a daisy-like appearance.
Hardiness Zones
This plant is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones six through eleven. It is important to note that Ice Plant can be sensitive to cold temperatures, so ensure that the first frost has passed before planting.
Native Area
The Ice Plant is native to the mountainous parts of Southern Africa.
Has Thorns/Spines?
No, this plant does not have any thorns or spines.
Common pests and diseases
The most common pests associated with Ice Plant are aphids and mealybugs. These can be easily identified by their presence on the stems and leaves of the plant. They feed on the sap, causing tissue damage. To remove pest infestations, use organic insecticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Common diseases of Ice Plant include root rot and powdery mildew. Root rot is caused by excess moisture and can be treated with a systemic fungicide. Powdery mildew is a white, crusty residue that appears on the leaves of the plants. To prevent this, keep the garden well-ventilated and ensure it is in direct sun most of the day.
How to Plant
Ice Plant is best planted in a spot that gets full sun and has well-draining soil. If necessary, amend the soil with sand or organic materials to improve drainage. Before planting, make sure that the last frost has passed.
To begin planting, dig a hole in the soil that is larger than the pot the plant is in. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and place it in the hole. Tamp down firmly, and refill the hole with soil. Water the plant generously and spread mulch around the stem of the plant. This will help to retain moisture.
How to Plant and Grow
Ice Plant should be grown in full sun with well-draining soil. Amend the soil with sand or organic materials if the soil has a heavy consistency. Before planting the Ice Plant, ensure that the last frost has passed.
You will need to dig a hole in the soil larger than the pot the plant is in. Remove the plant from its pot and carefully place it in the hole. Tamp down firmly and replace the soil. It is important to water the plant generously after planting, and to secure a layer of mulch around the stem of the plant to retain moisture.
Ice Plant requires little water to flourish. During times of high heat, water the plant when the soil appears dry. It is important to note that the foliage of this plant can develop a bronze carpet look during winter – this is a natural process and it is not necessary to provide additional water during this period.
Meaning and Symbolism
The delicate beauty of Ice Plant is undeniable, making this species one of the most sought-after succulents for home decoration. This plant’s name is derived from the small ice-like crystals it produces, creating a beautiful glistening look in sunshine.
Gifting this plant to someone is a great way to show them affection. It symbolizes innocence, passion, and unconditional love.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Ice Plant has been a part of the human experience for thousands of years, and the small ice-like crystals it produces have made it a favorite amongst gardeners throughout the centuries. The Aizoaceae family is widely thought to have originated in the area now known as South Africa, making it a widely popular species in tribal culture.
In some cultures, Ice Plant has been given as a sign of blessing, but it is also widely accepted as a sign of strength, fidelity, and sympathy. Its history and symbolic meaning give this plant great spiritual significance.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
There are many different varieties of Ice Plant, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some common varieties and their defining characteristics.
- Delosperma cooperi: This is a low-growing perennial that has bright yellow blossoms, with a deep purple center. It is a hardy species that is drought-tolerant.
- Delosperma nubigenum: This is the most popular variety of Ice Plant and it has bright, yellow daisy-like flowers, with a strong mahogany center. Its foliage is evergreen, and it turns bronze in winter.
- Delosperma congestum: This variety is better-suited for gardens as it is a flat-growing, ground-cover succulent, with bright magenta flowers. Its foliage is a thick, cushion-like evergreen, giving it a unique and attractive look when in bloom.
- Delosperma lineare: This variety has beautiful, arching stems with small, succulent leaves and dotted with deep purple-pink flowers. This variety is a great choice for dry, and sunny gardens.
How to Pot and Repot
Potting and repotting Ice Plant is relatively easy. When potting, make sure to use a well-draining potting mix specifically suited for succulents and cacti. It is important to use a pot with a drainage hole, to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
If repotting is necessary, use a pot that is two to three inches larger than the previous one. Make sure to use a potting mix specifically made for succulents and cacti, and sprinkle some perlite into the mix to help with drainage. When it is time to repot, place the pot on a level surface and carefully remove the plant from its old pot. Place it in the new pot and fill the remaining space with fresh potting mix. Tap the pot on the ground several times to ensure that the mix is well-packed, then water the plant generously.
How to Prune
Pruning Ice Plant is a necessary part of keeping your plant healthy and ensuring it is producing beautiful blooms. Pruning helps to encourage growth and remove dead or damaged branches or foliage. It is best to prune Ice Plant with pruning shears or light scissors. Start by removing any dead or sickly looking stems, and then look for stems that are crossing each other, as these can inhibit healthy growth. Once pruning is complete, water the plant generously to encourage growth.
How to Propagate
Propagation of Ice Plant is relatively easy and can be done using either stem cutting or seed. To propagate using stem cuttings, select healthy stems with at least two to three internodes. Make sure that the stems you chose are not too tender. Make a cutting below the second node and remove any leaves around the node. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone and then place it in a pot with well-draining potting mix. Water generously and keep the cutting out of direct sunlight, until you see new growth.
To propagate using seed, it is best to use fresh seeds. Place the seeds in a shallow tray, on a bed of well-draining potting mix. Keep the tray in a warm place, with indirect sunlight, and ensure that the potting mix stays moist. Water the tray every few days and you should see sprouts after a few weeks.
Three Frequently Asked Questions About Delosperma Nubigenum
Q: Can Ice Plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Ice Plant can be grown indoors as long as they are given plenty of sunlight. However, it is important to note that it will require several hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive.
Q: When and how often should I water my Ice Plant?
A: Water your Ice Plant when the soil appears to be dry. In warmer climates, this can be every few days, but in temperate climates, you may only need to water it once per week.
Q: What type of temperatures can Ice Plant tolerate?
A: Ice Plant can tolerate temperatures as low as forty degrees, but be sure to ensure that the first frost has passed before planting. In general, temperatures between forty-five and ninety are best.
Table Fact Sheet
| Name | Delosperma nubigenum |
|---|---|
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 4 to 6 inches |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-draining |
| Soil pH | 5.0 to 7.5 |
| Bloom Time | Spring to Fall |
| Flower Color | Yellow with purple center |
| Hardiness Zones | 6 to 11 |
| Native Area | Southern Africa |
| Has Thorns/Spines? | No |
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