How to Grow Ruby Delosperma

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Ruby Delosperma

Delosperma cooperi 'Ruby'

flower

Ruby Delosperma is a vibrant succulent groundcover featuring brilliant magenta-red flowers that bloom profusely in summer. This hardy, low-growing perennial is extremely drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping and rock gardens.

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Example Ruby Delosperma timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Ruby Delosperma
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
First Ruby Delosperma blooms
Around Jun 16

≈ 60 days after planting

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ruby Delosperma dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6+ hours daily for best flowering

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Water: Very low water needs once established. Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Drought-tolerant but avoid waterlogging.

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Spacing: 12-18 inches

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Days to maturity: 60-90 days to first flowers from transplant

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Planting depth: Plant at soil level; do not bury crown

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Perlite coarse sand gravel avoid organic matter

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 5-10, winter hardy down to -15°F

5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b

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Growth Stages

Establishment

2-4 weeks

Young plants establish a root system with minimal foliage growth

Water lightly for first 2-3 weeks to encourage rooting, then reduce frequency significantly. Protect from excessive moisture.

Vegetative Growth

4-8 weeks

Dense, low mat of fleshy succulent leaves develops

Minimal watering needed. No fertilizer required; too much nitrogen promotes weak growth. Ensure excellent drainage.

Pre-flowering

2-3 weeks

Plant develops flower buds along leaf tips

Continue dry conditions. Full sun exposure ensures robust budset. No deadheading needed to encourage more blooms.

Flowering

6-12 weeks (summer through early fall)

Abundant magenta-red daisy-like flowers cover the plant, typically 0.5-1 inch diameter

Maintain dry conditions; avoid overhead watering. Flowers are self-cleaning. Continue full sun exposure for maximum blooms.

Dormancy/Winter

4-5 months

Foliage may take on reddish tones in cold weather; growth slows dramatically

No watering needed in winter. Plant is cold-hardy; provide good drainage to prevent ice damage. Do not fertilize.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Sedums Sempervivum Ornamental grasses Lavender Catmint Russian sage Creeping thyme Echeveria

Avoid planting near:

Water-loving plants Plants requiring frequent watering Plants needing rich, amended soil Shade-preferring species

Common Pests

Improve drainage; avoid overwatering. Use well-draining soil mix. Remove affected plants if necessary. Treat with fungicide if caught early.
Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolate infested plants. Improve air circulation.
Spray foliage with water to dislodge. Use miticide if severe. Increase humidity slightly around affected plants.
and
Hand-pick in early morning or evening. Use slug traps or copper barriers if needed. Reduce soil moisture.

Uses

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Edible flowers

Culinary

Some Delosperma species have edible flowers with a mild, slightly tart flavor used as garnish in salads and desserts. The petals add visual appeal and subtle flavor notes. [source]

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Xeriscaping and drought-resistant landscaping

Household

Ruby Delosperma is ideal for water-efficient gardens, rock gardens, and green roofs. Its extreme drought tolerance makes it perfect for arid regions and sustainable landscape design. [source]

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Pollinator attraction

Wildlife

The bright magenta flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the blooming season. It provides an excellent nectar source in summer gardens. [source]

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Ground cover and erosion control

Craft

Dense growth habit makes Ruby Delosperma effective for stabilizing slopes and preventing soil erosion. It works well in containers, hanging baskets, and living walls. [source]

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Traditional uses

Medicinal

Delosperma species have been used in African traditional medicine for minor wound healing and skin applications, though scientific evidence is limited. Always consult professionals before medicinal use. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Delosperma Ruby is an ornamental flower and is not harvested for production. Enjoy blooms throughout summer and early fall. Deadheading is not necessary as flowers self-clean.

Fun Facts

🌱 Ruby Delosperma is commonly called 'Ice Plant' because its fleshy leaves appear crystalline and glistening in sunlight due to specialized water-storing cells called vesicles.
🌱 Native to South Africa, Delosperma means 'visible seed' (from Greek 'delos' meaning visible and 'sperma' meaning seed) referring to the exposed seeds visible in the plant's capsules.
🌱 This plant can survive on as little as 4-6 inches of annual rainfall once established, making it one of the most drought-tolerant ornamental perennials available.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Deadhead Full Sun Perennial

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