Delosperma litorale is a frost-hardy plant that is ideal for rock and alpine gardens. Originally from South Africa, it has become naturalized in the coastal regions of Southern California, United States, where it is often sold in the nursery trade as Delosperma 'Alba.'
Scientific Name
Delosperma litorale (Kensit) L.Bolus
Common Name(s)
Seaside Delosperma, White Trailing Iceplant
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum litorale
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Delosperma
Etymology
The specific epithet "litorale" (pronounced lit-or-AY-lee) means "of the seashore; littoral" and refers to the habitat of this species.
Origin
Delosperma litorale is native to South Africa. It grows in coastal limestone flats from Lambert's Bay in the Western Cape to Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape province.
Description
Delosperma litorale is a low-growing shrublet with trailing stems and spreading leaves arranged in opposite pairs. It typically reaches a height of 6 inches (15 cm), while the stems can grow up to 14 inches (35 cm) long, rooting at older nodes. The leaves are smooth, somewhat sickle-shaped, triangular in cross-section, and end in a short sharp point, measuring up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long and 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) wide. The leaves are grey-green with white margins, and when exposed to full sun or in cold, winter weather, they can take on shades of purple, red, pink, and orange.
In late summer and fall, Delosperma littorale produces white flowers on short stalks just above the leaves. They may appear solitary or in groups of three and can reach a diameter of 0.9 inches (2.2 cm). The fruits are pale brown, 5-locular capsules with valve wings and without covering membranes.
How to Grow and Care for Delosperma litorale
Light: For optimal growth, this plant requires bright, direct sunlight. Ensure it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Soil: Good drainage is essential to the survival of Delosperma litorale. Sandy and gravelly soils are ideal for this plant.
Temperature: Although it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, it prefers warm, dry climates. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5a to 9b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from -20 to 30 °F (-28.9 to -1.1 °C).
Watering: Once established, water your Delosperma litorale sparingly during the growing season. It can tolerate several months of drought. Keep it dry in the winter, and only water it if the leaves start to shrivel.
Fertilizing: This plant can thrive without any feeding. However, if grown in a container, it may require fertilization, as nutrients in potting soil deplete more quickly than in garden soil.
Repotting: Repot every three years or when the plant outgrows its current pot. Do this in the spring using a larger pot with drainage holes.
Propagation: Delosperma litorale can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds. If propagating by division, do so in the spring. Cuttings can be taken at any time during the growing season, while spring is ideal for sowing seeds.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Delosperma.
Toxicity of Delosperma litorale
Delosperma litorale is non-toxic, making it safe around children and pets.
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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