How to Grow Delosperma Wheels of Wonder
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Delosperma Wheels of Wonder
Delosperma × 'Wheels of Wonder'
flowerWheels of Wonder is a vibrant hybrid ice plant featuring prolific daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, magenta, purple, and yellow with contrasting centers. This compact, spreading succulent groundcover blooms nearly year-round in mild climates and is extremely drought-tolerant once established. It's ideal for rock gardens, containers, xeriscaping, and coastal landscapes.
When should you plant Delosperma Wheels of Wonder in your zone?
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Example Delosperma Wheels of Wonder timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Delosperma Wheels of Wonder
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Delosperma Wheels of Wonder blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5b-10b; winter hardy in zone 5 with protection
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Establishment
2-3 weeksYoung transplants with minimal foliage; roots developing into surrounding soil
Water lightly every 2-3 days for first 2-3 weeks. Ensure excellent drainage. Protect from heavy rain. Avoid fertilizing.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 weeksCompact, branching succulent foliage expands; fleshy leaves develop silvery-green color
Water sparingly as drought tolerance increases. Pinch back early growth to encourage bushiness. Do not fertilize; lean conditions promote flowering.
Flowering
6-10 weeks (spring/summer) or year-round in mild climatesAbundant daisy-like flowers with multiple color forms appear on short stems, creating a dense floral carpet
Provide full sun for maximum blooms. Reduce watering further. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous bloom. No fertilizer needed.
Dormancy/Rest (cold climates)
3-4 months (December-March in cold zones)Foliage may turn bronze or purple tones in cool months; minimal or no flowering in winter
Reduce water significantly. Provide winter mulch (sand or gravel, not organic) in zone 5-6. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent rot. Do not prune.
Year-Round Blooming (mild climates)
Ongoing in zones 8-10In zones 8-10, flowering continues with minimal interruption; occasional peak and rest cycles
Maintain consistent drought-tolerant care. Light deadheading extends bloom. Annual rejuvenation pruning (spring) keeps plants tidy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Prevent with excellent drainage and reduced watering. Remove affected plants immediately. Ensure soil dries between waterings.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap in dry conditions. Provide air circulation. Rarely serious outdoors.
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Isolate infested plants.
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Remove by hand, especially in humid climates. Copper barriers or iron phosphate baits as needed. Improve air circulation.
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Prune for air flow. Avoid overhead watering. Sulfur dust in severe cases. Improves in drier conditions.
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryThe colorful daisy-like blooms are technically edible and can be used as decorative garnishes for salads, desserts, and beverages, adding visual appeal without strong flavor. [source]
Xeriscaping and water conservation
HouseholdWheels of Wonder is exceptional for drought-tolerant landscaping in water-restricted regions, requiring minimal irrigation once established and reducing overall garden maintenance. [source]
Cut flower arrangements and dried arrangements
CraftFresh flowers can be used in floral arrangements, while dried flowers retain color well and work in dried bouquets and craft projects. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe abundant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it valuable for supporting local pollinator populations in drought-tolerant gardens. [source]
Container and groundcover gardening
HouseholdExcellent for hanging baskets, pots, rock gardens, and ground covers where it creates colorful, low-maintenance carpets of blooms throughout the season. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental flower; not harvested for food. Cut flowers for arrangements at mid-morning when dew dries. Stems last 7-10 days in water. For propagation, collect fresh seed in late summer or take stem cuttings year-round, allowing them to dry 1-2 days before planting in cactus mix.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Wheels of Wonder is a hybrid selection bred specifically for extended blooming and color variation, with individual plants sometimes producing multiple color morphs simultaneously—some flowers appearing nearly pure pink while others show magenta centers with yellow edges.
- 🌱 The name 'ice plant' comes from the glistening, crystalline-looking bladder cells (papillae) on the foliage that reflect light like ice crystals and may help the plant tolerate intense sun and heat.
- 🌱 This succulent can flower continuously in frost-free climates for up to 10-11 months per year, making it one of the longest-blooming groundcovers available for zone 8-10 gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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