Frosty Ice Plant
delosperma pruinosum
Also known as: ["Ice Plant","Cape Mesemb"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy, ice-blue leaves and daisy-like flowers that bloom in summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Delosperma |
| Botanical Name: | Delosperma pruinosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, container, or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure bright light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize dry periods over consistent schedules.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F / 18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; skip in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light; high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome).
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to encourage roots; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate 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, may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure excellent drainage; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or develop brown edges; growth may slow if watered too frequently.
Solution: Provide some afternoon shade; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDelosperma pruinosum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDelosperma pruinosum is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDelosperma pruinosum is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Delosperma pruinosum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Delosperma pruinosum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Delosperma pruinosum be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it thrives best in outdoor settings with full sun and well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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