Care of the succulent plant Delosperma herbeum or Highveld white vygie |
The genus Delosperma, family Aizoaceae, comprises about 100 species of succulent plants native to southern and eastern Africa. Some species are: Delosperma herbeum, Delosperma tradescantoides, Delosperma rileyi, Delosperma pruinosum, Delosperma lineare, Delosperma karooicum, Delosperma cooperi, Delosperma lehmannii. Common names: Highveld white vygie, Witberg Sheepfig, Witbergvygie. This species is native to South Africa. They are succulent plants with a turf habit that reach 30 cm (11.8") in height. The fleshy, opposite, linear leaves are glossy green; the leaves present reddish tones in winter. They produce abundant and showy flowers above the leaves; they can be white, yellow, magenta or pink. They bloom throughout the summer. Highveld white vygie is used to cover dry and sunny slopes, in rockeries, to cover walls, in clear undergrowth and in pots for balconies, patios and terraces. Delosperma herbeum needs full sun exposure and a warm, dry climate. Frost resistant to -10 ºC (14 ºF). Witberg Sheepfig grows in any type of soil that has good drainage, even in rocky soils. These low-maintenance plants do well in drought; water moderately waiting for the substrate to dry. Fertilize once in mid-spring with mineral fertilizer for cacti and succulents Prune lightly after flowering to control growth and remove dead stems. Delosperma herbeum is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to the accumulation of water in the roots. Witbergvygie is propagated by cuttings and from seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the succulent plant Delosperma herbeum or Highveld white vygie |