Ice Plant
mesembryanthemum crystallinum
Also known as: ["Crystalline Mesemb","Crispy Ice Plant"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to coastal regions of South Africa, known for its fleshy, crystalline-textured leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Mesembryanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Mesembryanthemum crystallinum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, as the plant is adapted to arid conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, or cactus mix with excellent drainage and low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when growth becomes leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from slight shade in peak summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid north-facing windows.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with low organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use terra cotta pots for better drainage; avoid peat-heavy mixes; ensure soil dries quickly.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions during flowering.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; division of offsets is also viable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and succulent/cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, perlite, succulent soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove gently, trim roots if needed, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the pot or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; reduce winter watering.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to standard potting mix; ensure no water retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; stunted growth or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; apply a diluted fungicide if signs of rot appear.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent, light watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (quarter strength) every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum. The oxalates and salt content can cause mild physiological disturbances, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of oxalates and high salt content. The effects are generally not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMesembryanthemum crystallinum, commonly known as crystalline ice plant, contains oxalates that can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation upon ingestion. The plant's high salt content may also contribute to mild physiological disturbances in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Ice Plant edible?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and have a salty, tangy flavor.
Q: How often should I water the Ice Plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does the Ice Plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its bright flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
