Fig Marigold, Ice Plant

mesembryanthemum nodiflorum

Also known as: ["Ice Plant","Fig Marigold","Cape Fig"]

Family: Aizoaceae Genus: Mesembryanthemum Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A low-growing succulent with fleshy, ice-like leaves and small, daisy-like flowers, native to South Africa.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","fast growing"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Mesembryanthemum
Botanical Name: Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny slopes, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight 6–8 hours/day. Adjust in summer to avoid intense midday sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from scorching; place in brightest indoor spot if outdoors is unavailable.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, or root rot indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; maximize light exposure.

Watering

every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust for seasons.

Soil

fast-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use terra cotta pots for better drainage; avoid peat-heavy mixes.

Temperature

Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C). Tolerates mild frost but prefers warmth.

Avoid drafts; use room thermometer; adjust care seasonally.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer

Dilute to half strength; fertilize after watering; stop in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cutting.
  2. Let callus.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Keep moist.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Let cuttings dry for a day; use bottom heat for faster roots; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Trim back leggy stems; remove dead or damaged growth.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove only dead/damaged parts.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Use fresh cactus mix; ensure drainage; gently tease apart roots if compacted.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.

Checklist

Check root bound; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target roots precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.

Soil Improvement

Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil; ensure no water retention.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or etiolation in 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; use a heat mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death.

Leaf spots on Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not applicable

While the plant is safe, it is always best to monitor pets around unfamiliar plants to prevent excessive ingestion, which could lead to mild digestive issues.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or studies indicating that this plant poses a risk to canine health when ingested or touched.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not applicable

Although non-toxic, it is advisable to prevent pets from consuming large quantities of any plant material to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset.
Humans
Non-toxic

Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum, commonly known as the fig marigold or crystalline ice plant, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not applicable

While the plant is non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended. Always ensure proper identification before consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How often should I water this plant?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Aizoaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 10–14 days, allowing s
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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