Are you looking for a hardy, vibrant addition to your garden? Then look no further beyond the ice plant.
This easygoing succulent has won the hearts of gardeners everywhere thanks to its bold, vibrant blooms, tough nature, and ability to thrive in dry, tough spots.
So if you’re looking for a colorful ground cover, a water-efficient plant for dry landscapes, or a pollinator-friendly addition, the ice plant is a versatile and reliable choice.
Let’s dive in and explore why this amazing plant should be a staple in your garden.
A Brief Overview of Ice Plant
“Ice plant” typically refers to a group of flowering plants in the Lampranthus and Delosperma genus is a part of the Aizoaceae family. Native to Southern Africa, these plants are known for their fleshy, succulent leaves and bright, daisy-like flowers. They earned their common name due to the small, sparkling hairs on their leaves resembling bits of ice, especially when dew or moisture collects.
Ice plantations come in many varieties, but the most popular in gardens are those with vibrant, colorful flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, yellow, red, or white. These flowers typically appear in late spring to early summer, adding a burst of color to your outdoor space.
Here are a few basic attributes of the Ice plant succulent:
| Common Name | Ice plant |
| Botanical Name | Delosperma spp., Lampranthus spp. |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous, perennial |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Hardiness Zones | 4–11 (USDA), depending on variety |
| Mature Size | 3-6 in. tall, 12-24 in. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full |
| Soil pH | Neutral |
| Soil Type | Sandy, well-drained |
| Bloom Time | Spring, Summer, and fall |
| Flower Colors | Red, purple, pink, yellow, orange |
| Native Area | Africa |
Let’s look at the advantages of growing ice plants in your home now.
The Benefits of Growing Ice Plants
Growing an icicle plant offers numerous benefits. Whether you choose to cultivate it indoors or outdoors, its trailing vines will infuse your space with a refreshing tropical ambiance.
Drought-Resistant: The Ice Plant’s Toughness
One of the primary reasons gardeners love the ice plant is its ability to thrive in dry, arid environments. As a succulent, it stores water in its leaves, which allows it to survive periods of drought without much watering. This makes it an ideal choice for xeriscaping (a landscaping technique designed to conserve water) or for regions with hot, dry summers.
Effortless Care: The Low-Maintenance Appeal of Ice Plants
Once established, ice plant succulents are a breeze to care for. They don’t need regular fertilizing or pruning, and they flourish in well-drained or rocky soils. Plus, their natural resistance to pests and diseases makes them incredibly easy to maintain, allowing you to enjoy their beauty with minimal effort.
Colorful Ground Cover
The ice plant flower is known for its vibrant, daisy-like petals that bloom in a variety of colors. Thanks to their spreading growth, iceplants are also perfect as ice ground cover plants.
An ice plant ground cover is a fantastic choice for low-maintenance landscaping, as it can withstand heat and drought conditions. Their trailing vines quickly fill an area with lush green leaves and vibrant flowers. Whether you’re looking to fill in the spaces between stepping stones or trying to cover up a slope to help prevent erosion, ice plants are up for the task with ease.
Pollinator-Friendly
Many are unaware of the fact that the bright, showy flowers of these plants attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an astounding addition to any garden that supports local wildlife. Its nectar-rich blooms are a welcome source of food for pollinators during the warmer months.
Now that we’ve explored some key benefits of adding an ice plant to your indoor plant space, let’s dive into how you can grow and care for it with minimal effort while enjoying superb results.
How to Grow and Care for Ice Plants?
Growing and caring for indoor and outdoor iceplants is both easy and rewarding. These tough little succulents love sunny, dry spots and need little attention to thrive.
Here’s how to help them flourish with minimal effort!
Location
Do you know that ice plants thrive in full sun? So choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. They can tolerate partial shade, but their flowers may not be as abundant. Succulent Ice plants that don’t receive enough sunlight often become spindly and exhibit weak growth.
Temperature
Ice plantations thrive in warmer climates, usually doing best in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9. They’re great at handling the heat, but they don’t fare as well in the cold. If you live in a region where winter temperatures drop below freezing, it’s a good idea to plant them in containers so they can keep shining year after year.
Soil Requirement
While ice plant succulents are adaptable to various soil types, they perform best in sandy or loamy soil that drains well. If you’re planting in heavier clay soil, consider amending it with sand or organic matter to improve drainage.
Watering
Though icicle plants are drought-tolerant, they still need regular watering during their establishment phase. Once planted, they can survive on natural rainfall or very infrequent watering. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Therefore, the ice succulent plant is not only beautiful but also easy to care for, making it a favorite among gardeners.
Varieties of Ice Plants That Will Leave You Stunned
There are several types of ice plant succulent to choose from, each with its unique characteristics. Every variety has distinct patterns, colors, and leaf shapes, making them excellent additions to any indoor vine plant collection. Here are a few of the most popular ones:
Delosperma Cooperi (Purple Ice Plant)
One of the most common and beloved varieties, it produces vibrant magenta pink flowers and is perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma cooperi |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 5 to 9 |
Delosperma Nubigenum (Yellow Ice Plant)
Known for its cheerful yellow blooms, this variety brings a sunny, bright touch to any space, often used for ground cover.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma nubigenum |
| Soil Type | Well-drained or rocky soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 5 to 9 |
Delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’
This striking variety features fiery orange and pink flowers that create a beautiful radial pattern, making it stand out in the garden.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’ |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 5 to 9 |
Delosperma Brunnthaleri
Known for its deep purple flowers and a spreading habit, this is a hardy, low-growing variety ideal for ground cover. It’s especially popular for its resilience and vibrant blooms.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma brunnthaleri |
| Soil Type | sandy or gravelly soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 6 to 9 |
Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert’
Compact and colorful, this variety showcases a range of hues, including purple, pink, and white flowers, ideal for smaller spaces or containers. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a perfect addition to rock gardens.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma, ‘Jewel of the Desert’ |
| Soil Type | Well-drained |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 5 to 9 |
Delosperma Floribundum ‘Starburst’
The ‘Starburst’ variety is known for its stunning, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink and purple. It is ideal for sunny, well-drained areas and adds vibrant, long-lasting color to gardens and landscapes.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma floribundum, ‘Starburst’ |
| Soil Type | Well-drained |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 5 to 9 |
Delosperma ‘Wheels of Wonder’
This unique variety is known for its large, showy flowers in shades of pink, yellow, and red, which create an eye-catching display. It is also a low-maintenance succulent known to offer resilience in gardens or containers.
| Scientific Name | Delosperma ‘Wheels of Wonder’ |
| Soil Type | Sandy or loamy soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 5 to 9 |
Lampranthus Aurantiacus
Also known as the orange icicle plant, Lampranthus aurantiacus features vibrant orange flowers that bloom prolifically. It’s a heat-tolerant, low-growing succulent that works wonderfully as ground cover.
| Scientific Name | Lampranthus aurantiacus |
| Soil Type | Loamy soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 9 to 11 |
Lampranthus Haworthii
Often referred to as “pink ice plant” or “gravel plant,” Lampranthus haworthii has striking pink or red flowers and fleshy, succulent leaves. It is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun. Furthermore, the pink ice plant adds a beautiful pop of color to any garden.
| Scientific Name | Lampranthus haworthii |
| Soil Type | Gravelly soil |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zones 9 to 11 |
Each of these varieties adds its own special touch, from vibrant colors to their hardy growth, making them a great fit for any garden style.
Potting and Repotting Ice Plant
Potting and repotting is a straightforward process that ensures your plant continues to thrive in a healthy environment. With its low-maintenance nature, this vibrant plant thrives in well-draining soil in a container that allows its roots to spread, ensuring abundant blooms. Here’s how to do it with ease:
Potting Ice Plant
Potting ice plants properly is important for their health and growth. Here is the correct approach to do so:
- Choosing the Right Pot
When potting your ice plantation, it’s crucial to pick a container with drainage holes. This allows excess water to escape, helping to keep the roots healthy and preventing the dreaded root rot. The ice plant thrives in well-drained soil, so proper drainage is a must.
- Soil Selection
For the best results, use a well-draining potting mix—cactus or succulent soil works wonders. If you’re feeling creative, you can make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Planting Your Ice Plant
Start by filling your pot with soil, leaving enough room for the succulent ice plant’s root ball. Gently place the plant in the pot, carefully spreading its roots out. Add more soil around the roots, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets.
NOTESBe sure to leave some space at the top of the pot to prevent water from spilling over when you water the plant.
- Watering
Once your plant is settled in its new pot, water it thoroughly to help the soil settle around the roots. After that, let the soil dry out between watering—ice plants are drought-tolerant and prefer not to be overwatered. A little dry spell between watering won’t hurt them at all.
- Finding the Perfect Spot
Your pink ice plant will love a sunny spot! Place it where it can soak up at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. These sun-loving beauties thrive in bright conditions and will reward you with vibrant blooms when they get the sunlight they crave.
Repotting Ice Plant
Ice plants don’t need frequent repotting because they grow slowly. However, if your plant has outgrown its pot or the soil has become compacted, it might be time to repot.
- Timing
The best time to repot your ice succulent plant is early spring, just before new growth starts. This gives your plant a chance to settle into its new pot before the growing season kicks in.
- Prepare the New Pot
Pick a pot that’s slightly larger than the current one, ensuring good drainage. If the roots are cramped, it’s time for a bigger container.
- Remove the Plant
Gently lift your icicle plant out of its old pot. If it’s stuck, tap the sides or use a small tool to ease it out, being careful not to damage the roots.
- Inspect the Roots
Before repotting, check the roots for any signs of rot or disease. Trim off any unhealthy roots with clean scissors or pruning shears to keep the plant healthy.
- Finally, Pot the Plant
Place the ice plant flower in its new pot and surround it with fresh, well-draining soil. Make sure the plant is level with the pot’s rim, not too deep, so it can grow comfortably.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips you can incorporate while taking proper care of your icicle plant:
- Container Choice: If you want to add extra flair to your balcony garden, ice plants can also thrive in hanging baskets or shallow containers where their trailing vines can spill over the sides.
- Overcrowding: If your succulent ice plant starts to look crowded or overgrown, feel free to trim back some stems and propagate the cuttings by allowing them to be callous and then planting them in new pots.
How to Propagate Ice Plants?
Propagating ice plants is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to grow new plants from cuttings. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a healthy plant: The first thing you have to do is look for a mature, healthy plant, free from any diseases or pests. Then snip a healthy 3-4 inch stem or leaf. Make sure the cutting has a few healthy leaves.
- Let it Callus: Then place the cutting somewhere dry for a few days so the cut end heals and doesn’t rot when planted.
- Now it’s time to prepare a pot: Take a small pot and fill it with a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. You can also use a mixture of sand and regular potting soil. And at last, ensure that the pot has drainage holes.
- Plant the Cutting: Stick the callused end into the soil, about 1–2 inches deep, and gently press the surrounding soil to hold it in place.
- Water Lightly: Water the cutting lightly, just enough to moisten the soil. Be careful not to overwater, as ice plants don’t like sitting in soggy soil.
- Provide Sunlight: Place the pot in a sunny spot and watch for new growth as the cutting slowly establishes roots.
In no time, with these efforts, you’ll have a new ice plant to add to your garden!
Common Problems With Ice Plants
Typically, iceplants are adaptive and easy to care for; however, they can still encounter a few issues. Proper ice plant care ensures these resilient plants thrive, especially in dry, sunny areas. Here are some common problems to watch out for:
Yellowing Leaves
As far as we have learned, ice plants are sensitive to excess water and moisture as well. If the soil is too wet, the roots can rot, leading to yellowing leaves. To prevent this from happening, just make sure your plant’s soil is well drained and always let it dry out between watering.
Leaves Falling Off
Withering and dying of leaves and stems is another common consequence of root rot due to overwatering. Excess moisture in the soil can cause root rot, preventing the stems and leaves from receiving the necessary nutrients and water.
Common Pests
Aphids and mealybugs can sometimes affect ice plantations. Keep an eye out for damage to the leaves and stems, as well as sticky or unusual substances left behind by these pests. For small infestations, use cotton swabs soaked in rubbing alcohol to gently treat the impacted areas.
Bottom Line
Now we know why ice plants are truly a gem in the gardening world. Its vibrant flowers and easy care make it stand out in any garden. It doesn’t matter whether you are a gardening pro or a beginner; this hardy succulent will brighten up your landscape with its bold colors and personality.
So if you are looking for a plant that offers both beauty and toughness, an ice plant is the way to go without a doubt, and you will be thrilled with the results!
Which plant is known as an ice plant?
Delosperma is known as an ice plant, a succulent that thrives in dry, sunny conditions and is famous for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers.
What is the ice plant good for?
The plant has soothing and diuretic properties. It is commonly used to treat inflammation of the pulmonary and genitourinary mucous membranes. The leaves are also utilized for treating conditions such as ascites, dysentery, and diseases of the liver and kidney.
Is the ice plant edible?
The leaves and stems of this ice plant make a great substitute for spinach. They can be steamed, cooked, or eaten raw, and they also serve as a garnish for dishes.
