Trailing Ice Plant
delosperma cooperi
Also known as: ["Cooper's Ice Plant","Trailing Ice Plant"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with vibrant magenta or pink flowers that bloom profusely in summer, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Delosperma |
| Botanical Name: | Delosperma cooperi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining cactus or succulent mix with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with bright, direct light; adjust for intense summer sun by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; avoid sudden exposure to prevent scorching; place in full sun outdoors or in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid low-light conditions.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, or when soil is dry to the touch
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries fully between waterings, and reduce frequency in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; adjust watering for heat.
Fertilizing
every 3 months during active growing season
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Let them callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth and improve appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
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 larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid water retention.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and prevents overcrowding.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply slowly to avoid runoff, ensure water penetrates deeply, water in the morning, and ensure proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once a month or less, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand 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; leaves may turn purple or black.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection in winter.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or scorch; growth may slow under intense heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly in spring and summer, avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDelosperma cooperi is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDelosperma cooperi is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDelosperma cooperi is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Delosperma cooperi be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Delosperma cooperi attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Delosperma cooperi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in containers, rock gardens, or as a ground cover, provided it has excellent drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, or when soi |
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