Ice Plant
drosanthemum hispidum
Also known as: ["Ice Plant","Trailing Ice Plant","Moss Rose"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to South Africa, known for its fleshy, ice-like leaves and vibrant magenta flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Drosanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Drosanthemum hispidum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny, dry border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight 6–8 hours/day; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; place indoors near south-facing windows or in shaded outdoor areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, dry conditions.
Avoid drafty areas; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–70%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and succulent/cactus 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, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears for larger cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/overgrown stems; shape plant evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
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 needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; ensures fresh soil and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid overpotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) when soil is dry to the touch; reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage; avoid heavy organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide frost protection if below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration if not watered adequately.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid feeding in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDrosanthemum hispidum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDrosanthemum hispidum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDrosanthemum hispidum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Drosanthemum hispidum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Can I grow this plant indoors?
A: While possible, it prefers outdoor conditions with ample sunlight and good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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