Delosperma patersoniae requires very little maintenance. Although it is one of the coastal species, it can also thrive in gardens away from the coast.
Scientific Name
Delosperma patersoniae (L.Bolus) L.Bolus
Common Name(s)
Paterson Sheepfig
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum patersoniae
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Delosperma
Etymology
The specific epithet "patersoniae" (pronounced pat-er-SON-ee-ay) probably honors Florence Mary Paterson (born Hallack), also known as Mrs. T.V. Paterson (1869-1936), a South African plant collector.
Origin
Delosperma patersoniae is native to South Africa. It grows on rocky outcrops near the sea in the Eastern Cape province.
Description
Delosperma patersoniae is a dwarf shrublet with compressed branches that bear trigonous, recurved leaves with short cilia along their margins. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall, and all parts of the plants are velvety.
From late spring to fall, Delosperma patersoniae produces daisy-like flowers with petals that can be white, pale pink, or apricot. The flowers appear on a short stalk, solitary or in groups of three. The fruits are pale brown, 5-locular capsules without covering membranes.
How to Grow and Care for Delosperma patersoniae
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 patersoniae. 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 patersoniae 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 patersoniae can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds. If propagating by division, do so in the spring. Cuttings can be taken 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 patersoniae
Delosperma patersoniae 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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