Scientific Name
Delosperma congestum L.Bolus
Common Name(s)
Gold Nugget Ice Plant
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Delosperma
Origin
Delosperma congestum is native to South Africa.
Description
Delosperma congestum is an alpine succulent that forms a spreading carpet of semi-woody stems and glossy pale green leaves. It can grow up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) tall. The leaves turn reddish or maroon during winter.
The daisy-like flowers are bright golden yellow and appear densely above the foliage during summer.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 5a to 10b: from −20 °F (−28.9 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Delospermas grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 5 to 9 and will bloom for most of summer and fall. Their foliage is mostly evergreen, and because of this, they make a great year-round ground cover. However, while the plant is evergreen, it often has some dieback of foliage in the winter.
These plants prefer full sun but can tolerate light shade in the garden. Because they are succulents, they do not tolerate wet soil but do well in poor soils. Wet soil, especially in winter, is likely to kill the plants. However, this plant can become invasive in areas where the soil stays consistently dry, so it is best to consider this when planting it.
Delosperma can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds. If propagating by division, dividing the plants in the spring is best. Cuttings can be taken anytime in the spring, summer, or fall. When grown by seeds, scatter them on the soil's surface and do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Delosperma.
Links
- Back to genus Delosperma
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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