Care of the succulent plant Lampranthus zeyheri or Trailing iceplant |
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The genus Lampranthus, family Aizoaceae, comprises about 250 species of succulent plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Lampranthus zeyheri, Lampranthus spectabilis, Lampranthus multiradiatus, Lampranthus falcatus, Lampranthus blandus, Lampranthus aureus, Lampranthus amoenus. Common name: Trailing iceplant. Scientific synonym: Mesembryanthemum zeyheri. They are creeping succulent plants that reach 15 cm (5.9") in height. The erect and fleshy cylindrical leaves are green with reddish tones. The very showy violet, pink, orange, white or yellow flowers grow above the leaves and even hide the plant. They bloom in spring and summer. They are used in rockeries, borders, to cover dry and sunny slopes and in pots for patios, terraces and balconies. They are suitable for Mediterranean coastal gardens. The Lampranthus zeyheri needs full sun exposure; also grows in semi-shade but will flower less. They resist intense heat well but not frost. They grow in any type of soil that has good drainage; we can use a commercial substrate for cacti if it is grown in pots. Always water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Water very little in winter. Fertilize once in spring with mineral fertilizer for cacti and succulents. Prune faded flowers when flowering is over. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering. They are propagated by cuttings in autumn and from seed sown in a seedbed in late winter. |
Images of the succulent plant Lampranthus zeyheri or Trailing iceplant |
 Lampranthus zeyheri  Lampranthus zeyheri  Lampranthus zeyheri  Lampranthus zeyheri |