Care of the succulent plant Delosperma rileyi 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 rileyi, Delosperma pruinosum, Delosperma lineare, Delosperma karooicum, Delosperma cooperi, Delosperma herbeum, Delosperma lehmannii, Delosperma tradescantoides. Common name: Ice plant. This species is native to South Africa. They are perennial succulent plants with a covering habit that reach 25 cm (9.84") in height. The fleshy leaves are wedge-shaped, 1 cm (0.39") long and green in color. The attractive flowers are small and can be light pink or reddish in color. They bloom in spring, summer, and even fall. They are used in rockeries, as slope covers or in pots for patios, balconies or terraces. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Delosperma rileyi can grow in direct sunlight or semi-shade exposure. Do not expose it to temperatures below 5 ºC (41 ºF). They can be grown in any well-drained soil; if it is grown in a pot, a commercial substrate for cacti can be used. The transplant is done in early spring. Water regularly in summer waiting for the soil to be dry. The plant warns of lack of water because the leaves wrinkle slightly. In winter water once a month. They resist drought quite well. Fertilize with succulent and cactus fertilizer every 60 days during spring and summer. Pruning lightly in early spring can be used to control growth or to maintain a more compact appearance (in pots and planters). They are plants resistant to pests and diseases; you just have to watch the excess water. They propagate by cuttings in spring or summer and by seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the succulent plant Delosperma rileyi or Ice plant |
 Delosperma rileyi  Delosperma rileyi  Delosperma rileyi |