Hardy Ice Plant Delosperma nubigenum

Water

The plant commonly known as Hard Ice Plant needs to be watered sparingly. Overwatering can easily lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Water approximately once every two weeks during the growing season, providing about 0.25 gallons per watering for a medium-sized plant. In winter, reduce watering frequency, as the plant enters a dormant period. Ensure good drainage when watering to prevent water from accumulating at the base.

Light

Hard Ice Plant thrives in full sunlight and can tolerate high levels of direct exposure. Ideal growing conditions include a south-facing spot where the plant can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. Avoid places with prolonged shade, as this can impede growth and flowering.

Temperature

The Hard Ice Plant prefers warm temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. It can survive temperature dips down to around -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but the ideal range for this succulent is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant, so partial shade may be beneficial in very hot summer climates.

Pruning

Pruning Hard Ice Plant helps to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming and cut back any overgrown or dead stems in late winter or early spring. Pruning once a year is typically sufficient for this low-maintenance succulent.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil for Hardy Ice Plant (Delosperma nubigenum) is a well-draining mix like cactus or succulent potting soil with added perlite or pumice for aeration. Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5, ensuring proper nutrient uptake and plant health. Additionally, provide a top dressing of gravel to mimic its natural, rocky habitat and prevent moisture buildup around the stem.

Repotting

Hardy Ice Plant should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a container only slightly larger than the previous one as a too-large pot can hold excess moisture, leading to root rot. Ensure the new pot has ample drainage holes.

Humidity & Misting

Hardy Ice Plant prefers a dry environment with low humidity typical of its native arid habitats. It is tolerant of indoor air conditions but does best with humidity levels below 60%. Avoid high humidity environments to prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Hardy Ice Plant in a bright, sunny spot and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Grow in full sun, well-drained soil; protect from excessive winter wetness.

• Hardiness zone

  6-8 USDA

Life cycle

Delosperma nubigenum, commonly known as Hardy Ice Plant, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring, when soil temperatures are warm enough to encourage growth. After germination, the seedling establishes a root system and starts to produce fleshy, succulent leaves in a ground-hugging rosette. As the plant matures, it spreads outwards through stems that root at the nodes to form a dense, mat-like ground cover. In late spring to summer, Hardy Ice Plant produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that open in the sunshine and attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small capsules that contain seeds, which are then dispersed by wind, water, or animals, ensuring the propagation of the species. Lastly, although it is a perennial, in colder climates, Delosperma nubigenum may die back in the winter, only to regrow from its root system with the return of warm weather.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• The most popular method of propagating the plant known as Ice Plant (Delosperma nubigenum) is through cuttings. This is often done during the warmer growing seasons of spring or early summer. To propagate by cuttings, one should snip off a healthy piece of the plant's stem, ideally about 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 12.7 cm) long. After cutting, it's advisable to let the end callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. Once calloused, the cutting can be placed directly into well-draining soil. To encourage rooting, it's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be treated as an established Ice Plant.