Scientific Name
Delosperma sphalmanthoides S.A.Hammer
Common Name(s)
Tufted Ice Plant
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Delosperma
Description
Delosperma sphalmanthoides is a small compact succulent with blue-green finger-like leaves covered in spring by magenta-colored flowers. It is the smallest species in the genus. The tiny leaves are thick, fleshy, and held upward in a little cushion that may grow up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) tall and up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter.
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 bloom for most of the 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 will often have some dieback of foliage in the winter.
These plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some light shade in the garden. Because they are succulents, they do not tolerate wet soil, though they do well in poor soils. Damp soil, especially during the winter months, 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, it is best to divide the plants in the spring. Cuttings can be taken anytime in the spring, summer, or fall. When grown by seeds, scatter the seeds on the soil's surface and not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Delosperma.
Origin
Delosperma sphalmanthoides is native to South Africa (Cape Province).
Links
- Back to genus Delosperma
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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