How to Grow Delosperma
Wikimedia Commons
Delosperma
Delosperma cooperi
flowerDelosperma, commonly known as ice plant or hardy ice plant, is a low-growing succulent ground cover native to South Africa. It produces vibrant daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, or purple, and features thick, fleshy foliage that turns reddish in cool weather. This drought-tolerant plant is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Delosperma in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Delosperma timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Delosperma
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Delosperma blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Delosperma dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; some tender varieties best in zones 6-9
Sign up free to see if Delosperma grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Delosperma timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny rosette forms with 2-4 true leaves; fleshy and delicate
Keep soil lightly moist but not wet; provide bright light. Avoid damping off by ensuring good air circulation.
Vegetative
4-6 weeksLow-growing mat expands with increasing fleshy foliage; compact rosettes form
Transition to drier conditions; minimal fertilizer needed. Thin seedlings if crowded. Begin hardening off transplants.
Maturation
4-8 weeksDense ground cover 2-4 inches tall with established root system; foliage may redden in cool weather
Reduce water significantly; provide excellent drainage. Fertilize lightly if needed (low-nitrogen formula). Remove weeds.
Dormancy/Rest
3-4 months (fall to early spring)Growth slows or pauses in winter; foliage may darken or become dormant depending on variety and zone
Reduce watering to minimal; withhold fertilizer. Protect from excessive winter moisture. Hardy varieties tolerate freezing.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove affected leaves; ensure good drainage and airflow
-
Hand-remove or treat with horticultural oil; prune heavily infested stems
-
Increase humidity slightly, spray with water or miticide; improve air circulation
-
Allow soil to dry out; use yellow sticky traps; improve drainage to reduce moisture
-
Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering; repot in fresh succulent soil; remove affected portions
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryThe flowers of some Delosperma species are edible and can garnish salads, desserts, and beverages. They add color and a mild, slightly tangy flavor. [source]
Ground cover and erosion control
HouseholdDelosperma's dense, low-growing habit makes it excellent for covering bare soil, controlling erosion on slopes, and creating living mulch in rock gardens and xeriscapes. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
CraftThe long-lasting, colorful blooms make striking additions to fresh or dried floral arrangements and craft projects. They dry well for pressed flower work. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeDelosperma flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it valuable for supporting local insect populations and garden ecosystems. [source]
Container and succulent gardening
HouseholdIts compact growth habit and minimal water needs make Delosperma ideal for container gardens, alpine troughs, green roofs, and mixed succulent arrangements. [source]
Harvest Tips
Delosperma is not harvested for yield. Deadhead faded flowers to extend blooming season. Cut back leggy growth in early spring to maintain compact form. Collect seeds from dried seed pods in late summer for propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Delosperma' derives from Greek words meaning 'visible seed' (delos = visible, sperma = seed), referring to the conspicuous seeds in its fruit capsules.
- 🌱 Ice plants earned their common name because their leaves and stems appear to be covered with glistening, icy crystals—these are actually water-storing vesicles (leaf hairs) that reflect light.
- 🌱 Delosperma is extremely drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor, sandy soils where most plants struggle, making it a favorite for xeriscaping and low-maintenance landscapes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Delosperma planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Delosperma seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Delosperma timeline →