Taylor's Ice Plant
delosperma taylorii
Also known as: ["Ice Plant","Trailing Ice Plant"]
Overview
A low-growing succulent with fleshy leaves and daisy-like flowers, 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 taylorii |
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":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil 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 pruning
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun. Protect from harsh midday sun in summer. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun lover; protect from intense summer heat; rotate for even growth
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; use a mix with sand or grit
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F / 18–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain good air circulation
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Use a cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize only during growing season
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light with high humidity (e.g., a propagator or plastic bag cover).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation medium
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use warm, humid conditions; avoid overwatering
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or overgrown stems at the base with clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead/damaged stems; shape lightly; dispose of clippings
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years. Delosperma prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use well-draining soil; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage. Incorporate a small amount of compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death if prolonged below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Ensure good drainage to prevent cold, waterlogged soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dormancy if not provided adequate water and some afternoon shade.
Solution: Provide light afternoon shade in extreme heat. Water deeply but infrequently to avoid water stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize in growing season only
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDelosperma taylorii is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDelosperma taylorii is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDelosperma taylorii is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed for culinary purposes.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Delosperma taylorii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Delosperma taylorii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Delosperma taylorii be grown indoors?
A: It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in sunny, well-drained locations.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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