How to Grow Wheels of Wonder
Wikimedia Commons
Wheels of Wonder
Delosperma 'Wheels of Wonder'
flowerWheels of Wonder is a vibrant ice plant cultivar known for its stunning bicolor flowers featuring bright magenta-pink petals with contrasting yellow centers. This succulent groundcover blooms prolifically throughout warm months and spreads rapidly to create dense, colorful mats. It's a heat and drought-tolerant perennial ideal for xeriscape gardens and containers.
When should you plant Wheels of Wonder in your zone?
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Example Wheels of Wonder timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant 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 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 9b-11; tolerates zone 9a with winter protection
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Get my Wheels of Wonder timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung transplants establishing roots; minimal growth above ground in first 2-4 weeks
Water lightly every 7-10 days until roots establish; ensure excellent drainage; protect from heavy rain
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksRapid lateral spreading with fleshy green stems and small succulent leaves; no flowers yet
Water only when soil is completely dry; fertilize sparingly with low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer; thin crowded areas if needed
Budding & Early Bloom
1-2 weeksStems topped with tight flower buds; first magenta-pink blooms with yellow centers appearing
Maintain dry conditions; continue minimal watering; deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Peak Flowering
6-12 weeks (spring through summer/fall)Dense profusion of 'wheels' of magenta flowers with bright yellow centers covering the foliage; continuous blooming
Water only in drought conditions; deadhead regularly for sustained bloom; apply dilute low-nitrogen fertilizer every 4 weeks if desired
Dormancy & Winter Rest
3-4 monthsReduced or ceased flowering; foliage may take on reddish or bronze tones; growth slows dramatically
Minimize watering to once monthly or less; no fertilizer; protect from freezing temperatures in zone 9; well-draining soil essential to prevent winter rot
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; spray with 70% isopropyl alcohol or neem oil; improve air circulation; avoid overwatering
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Increase humidity slightly with misting; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; remove heavily infested stems
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Manually remove with brush; spray with horticultural oil during dormant season; prune heavily infested branches
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Improve drainage immediately; reduce watering; remove rotted tissue; repot in fresh dry soil; fungicide applications (copper-based) as last resort
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Check soil moisture before watering; ensure pot drainage holes; use well-draining soil; root rot is often fatal—prevention is key
Uses
Edible ice plant
CulinaryThe fleshy leaves and stems are edible with a salty, crisp texture, commonly used fresh in salads or as garnish. Some Delosperma species are foraged or cultivated as novelty salad greens in Mediterranean and South African cuisines. [source]
Low-maintenance groundcover
HouseholdWheels of Wonder serves as an efficient, visually striking groundcover for hot, dry garden spots where traditional turf fails. Reduces landscape maintenance needs and water usage while providing vibrant seasonal color. [source]
Container & hanging basket display
HouseholdExcellent for container gardens, hanging baskets, and rock gardens where its trailing habit and bicolor flowers create eye-catching displays. Compact growth and minimal watering make it ideal for patios, balconies, and rooftops. [source]
Pollinator nectar source
WildlifeThe abundant magenta and yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout the blooming season, supporting local ecosystems with minimal chemical inputs. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftThe dried flower heads retain color and structure well, making them suitable for dried floral arrangements and craft projects when harvested and air-dried. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not a harvest plant. For propagation: Take 2-3 inch stem cuttings in spring/summer, allow to callus for 2-3 days, then plant in dry succulent soil. Cuttings root in 1-2 weeks with minimal water.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'ice plant' comes from crystalline leaf structures (called papillae or 'ice cells') that sparkle in sunlight and help the plant reflect heat and reduce water loss.
- 🌱 Delosperma is native to South Africa and thrives in conditions that would kill most other ornamental plants, making it a favorite among xeriscape gardeners in arid and semi-arid climates.
- 🌱 The 'Wheels of Wonder' cultivar was bred to produce prolific bicolor blooms; each flower resembles a tiny colorful pinwheel, appearing by the hundreds on a mature plant at peak bloom.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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