Coppery Mesemb
malephora crocea
Also known as: ["Coppery Ice Plant","Coppery Fig-Marigold"]
Overview
A succulent perennial native to South Africa, known for its vibrant coppery-orange flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Malephora |
| Botanical Name: | Malephora crocea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, succulent bed, or container in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in extreme summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is too intense.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with low organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix designed for succulents.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), bright indirect light, and high humidity (60–70%).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidity dome to maintain moisture; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth; minimal pruning needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure soil is moistened to a depth of 6–8 inches; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month in winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive water loss.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency slightly; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMalephora crocea is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMalephora crocea is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMalephora crocea, commonly known as Copper Ice Plant, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption, though it is not typically used as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Malephora crocea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Malephora crocea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Malephora crocea be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in sunny, well-drained locations, though it can be grown indoors with ample sunlight and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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