Ice Plant
corpuscularia lehmannii
Also known as: ["Ice Plant","Jewel of the Desert"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy, ice-like leaves and yellow flowers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","deer resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Corpuscularia |
| Botanical Name: | Corpuscularia lehmannii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- 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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when growth becomes leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal rather than heavy cutting.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but may need acclimation to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak midday hours in summer; place near south-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; avoid dappled shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 10–14 days during active growth, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use gritty amendments.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F or 18–27°C) during active growth. Tolerates mild cold but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during growth period.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in dormant season.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after planting.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools; maintain consistent warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back overgrown stems or remove offsets to encourage compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to remove dead or damaged parts and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Essential to refresh soil and improve drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust by season.
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. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall/winter to match dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing) in cold; wilting or shriveling in heat; stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains moist. Prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide insulation (e.g., wrapping pot) in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf shriveling, or sunburn, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water carefully if soil dries out.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (e.g., 1/4 strength) monthly during spring/summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCorpuscularia lehmannii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicCorpuscularia lehmannii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicCorpuscularia lehmannii is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Corpuscularia lehmannii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun conditions.
Q: Can Corpuscularia lehmannii be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors with adequate sunlight and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days during acti |
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