Scientific Name
Drosanthemum floribundum (Haw.) Schwant.
Common Names
Pale Dewplant, Rosea Ice Plant
Synonyms
Mesembryanthemum floribundum, Drosanthemum torquatum, Mesembryanthemum furfureum, Mesembryanthemum hispidum var. pallidum, Mesembryanthemum torquatum, Mesembryanthemum tuberculatum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Drosanthemum
Description
Drosanthemum floribundum is a hardy perennial with dazzling metallic purple flowers that appear in spring each year. It is a low-growing, ground-hugging plant with small, stubby, fleshy, light green leaves. The flowers usually open about midday and close in the evenings. On dull, cool days, they remain closed.
Photo via calphotos.berkeley.edu
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
The basics of Mesemb care are very simple, with free-draining soil, plenty of sun and ventilation, and regular light watering in the right season. Yet the difficulties are endless, trying to adapt to the Mesembs' own adaptability and to follow their growth habits in your particular conditions.
Mesembs require a loam-based compost with the addition of extra drainage material such as horticultural grit or perlite. They all like good light conditions and plenty of ventilation.
Some are relatively cold-hardy and can even survive mild winters outside. Most will survive temperatures down to the freezing point. Some Mesembs begin to grow in the fall as the temperature drops and the days get shorter.
Because different genera within the Mesemb family have different growing conditions, care must be taken with watering. Some genera will benefit from a light spray water to prevent shriveling during their dormant period. See more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Origin
Native to South Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Drosanthemum
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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