How to Grow Mesemb (Livingstone Daisy, Ice Plant)
Mesemb (Livingstone Daisy, Ice Plant)
Mesembryanthemum species (now reclassified; includes Dorotheanthus bellidiformis and related genera)
flowerMesembs are a diverse group of succulent flowering plants native to South Africa, characterized by fleshy leaves and vibrant, daisy-like flowers that close at night or in cloudy conditions. These low-growing, drought-tolerant plants produce prolific blooms in shades of pink, purple, red, orange, yellow, and white, often with contrasting centers. They are popular ornamental plants for rock gardens, borders, and containers due to their minimal care requirements and showy display.
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Example Mesemb (Livingstone Daisy, Ice Plant) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Mesemb (Livingstone Daisy, Ice Plant)
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 Mesemb (Livingstone Daisy, Ice Plant) blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; often grown as cool-season annuals in zones 6-8
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Germination
7-14 daysSeeds sprout as tiny seedlings with minimal cotyledons visible on the soil surface. Germination occurs best at cool temperatures (60-70°F).
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light. Ensure good air circulation to prevent damping-off.
Seedling & Establishment
2-4 weeksSmall rosettes of fleshy leaves develop. Plants remain compact and low-growing. Leaves take on characteristic succulent appearance.
Gradually increase light exposure. Begin light watering, allowing slight drying between waterings. Do not fertilize yet; avoid overwatering.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 weeksDense mats of fleshy foliage expand as plants bush out. Flowering buds may begin to form at stem tips. Plants develop full mature form.
Water sparingly; only when soil is dry to touch. Ensure excellent drainage. Full sun promotes compact growth and bud formation. No fertilizer needed.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (can extend to 3+ months with optimal conditions)Abundant daisy-like flowers with papery petals and contrasting centers bloom profusely. Flowers open in bright sunlight and close in shade or at night. Continuous succession of blooms.
Maintain dry conditions; do not water leaves. Provide maximum sunlight and good air circulation. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Avoid fertilizer.
Decline & Rest
Variable; plants may rest until fall or die back completely in hot climatesAs temperatures warm (spring in cool climates) or if plants experience heat stress and drought, flowering slows and plants may enter dormancy or senescence. Growth slows considerably.
Reduce water to minimal levels. In regions where mesembs are annual, plants naturally decline. In mild climates, allow rest period; resume watering in fall for reblooming.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove affected leaves; ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering
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Rinse with water spray; use miticide if severe; increase humidity slightly and improve air circulation
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap spray; remove heavily infested leaves
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Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; use well-draining soil; remove and discard severely affected plants; improve drainage and air circulation
Uses
Edible Flowering Garnish
CulinaryMesemb flowers can be used as colorful, edible garnishes for salads and desserts, adding visual appeal and a subtle, slightly sweet flavor to dishes. [source]
Container & Garden Display
HouseholdTheir prolific blooms and low maintenance make mesembs ideal for rock gardens, succulent containers, hanging baskets, border edging, and drought-tolerant landscape design. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe vibrantly colored flowers last in fresh arrangements and can be pressed or dried for craft projects, wreaths, and botanical art. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeMesemb flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making them valuable additions to pollinator gardens and ecological landscapes. [source]
Succulent Phytochemistry
MedicinalMesembs contain compounds typical of succulents, including flavonoids and polysaccharides, though medical research on specific therapeutic uses remains limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Mesembs are ornamental plants grown for flowers, not harvested in the traditional sense. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. Flowers are ephemeral and close in the afternoon or in cloudy conditions; view in morning for best display. In warm climates, plants typically perform best as cool-season bloomers (fall through spring), declining in intense summer heat.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Mesembs are named from the Greek 'mesos' (middle) and 'embryon' (embryo), referring to the seeds seemingly contained in the middle of the fruit rather than at its base.
- 🌱 The flowers feature a papery texture and iridescent quality under certain light conditions, appearing to shimmer or sparkle—earning them the common name 'ice plants' due to their crystalline appearance.
- 🌱 Mesembs have adapted to survive extreme drought through photosynthesis at night and stomatal closure during the day (CAM metabolism), an advanced water-conservation strategy.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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