Care of the succulent plant Delosperma karooicum or Ice plant |
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The genus Delosperma, family Aizoaceae, includes 100 species of succulent plants native to South and East Africa. Some species are: Delosperma karooicum, Delosperma cooperi, Delosperma pruinosum, Delosperma herbeum, Delosperma lehmannii, Delosperma rileyi, Delosperma lineare, Delosperma tradescantoides. Common name: Ice plant. This species is native to South Africa. They are small succulent plants with a creeping habit that reach 15 cm (5.9") in height. The leaves are fleshy, light green and 1.5 cm (0.59") long. The flowers are small and white but are very abundant. They bloom in spring and can also do so in summer and fall. They are used in pots and planters, in rockeries and as dry slope coverings. Delosperma karooicum needs a sunny exposure but avoiding direct sun in the hottest hours of the day; for example oriented to the East or the West. In winter the temperatures should not be lower than 5 ºC (41 ºF). They can grow in poor, dry soils, but they appreciate well-drained soil that contains organic matter. Transplant in early spring if necessary. They resist drought well; water waiting for the soil to dry out completely. It's important to greatly reduce watering in winter. They appreciate fertilizers with fertilizer for succulents and cacti every 2 months in spring and summer. Prune lightly in early spring to maintain a compact appearance and to control growth. They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They propagate by cuttings in spring or summer and by seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the succulent plant Delosperma karooicum or Ice plant |
 Delosperma karooicum  Delosperma karooicum |