Prepare to be enchanted by the Ice Plant (most notably within the Delosperma genus), a dazzling succulent groundcover that truly lives up to its name. With its fleshy foliage often adorned with glistening bladder cells that resemble ice crystals, and its profusion of vibrant, daisy-like flowers, this plant adds a unique sparkle to any sunny space. Get ready to meet this resilient and beautiful succulent!
The common name “Ice Plant” perfectly captures the plant’s most striking feature: the tiny, water-filled cells on its leaves and stems that shimmer like ice in the sunlight. This sparkling effect, combined with the succulent nature of its foliage, makes it a captivating addition to rock gardens, borders, and ground covers. The leaves themselves come in various shades of green and can even take on attractive reddish hues in cooler weather.
But the real showstopper is the Ice Plant‘s long-lasting and abundant blooms. From late spring well into fall, these hardy perennials produce a carpet of brightly colored, daisy-like flowers in hues of pink, red, orange, yellow, purple, and white. These vibrant displays attract pollinators and add a cheerful touch to any landscape. The flowers often close at night or on cloudy days, adding to their dynamic charm.
Meeting the Ice Plant reveals a tough and adaptable succulent. Native to arid regions, it thrives in well-drained, even poor soils and is remarkably drought-tolerant once established. This makes it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance beauty in sunny, dry locations. Many varieties are also deer-resistant, adding to their practicality.
Caring for the Ice Plant is relatively simple. It flourishes in full sun (at least 6 hours daily) and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Its resilience and sparkling appearance make the Ice Plant a truly unique and rewarding succulent to meet and grow.