Red Mountain Ice Plant Delosperma dyeri Red Mountain = 'Psdold'
![ice plant [Red Mountain]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b565275469.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
The Delosperma dyeri Red Mountain, also known as Red Mountain Flame Ice Plant, presents a striking appearance with its vibrant floral and foliage characteristics. The plant is adorned with daisy-like flowers that exhibit a fiery orange-red hue with a yellow center, creating a warm and inviting splash of color. These blossoms are rich and intense, attracting both the eyes of onlookers as well as various pollinators such as bees and butterflies in the garden. The foliage of the Red Mountain Flame Ice Plant is equally appealing. It consists of succulent, fleshy leaves that have a shimmering, jewel-like quality. These leaves are typically a bright green color and may take on reddish tones that further enhance the plant's overall ornamental appeal. The leaves are small and cylindrical, forming a dense, mat-like ground cover that spreads outwards. Together, the brilliant flowers contrasted against the luscious, verdant foliage provide a delightful visual harmony. This plant boasts a hardy nature and a propensity to bloom for an extended period, offering a prolonged display of its beauty throughout the growing season. The brightness and the succulent texture of its leaves make the Red Mountain Flame Ice Plant a standout selection for gardens, rockeries, and as a ground cover that craves attention in sunny locations.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Aizoaceae
Synonyms
Red Mountain Flame Ice Plant, Red Mountain Ice Plant, Dyer's Ice Plant
Common names
Delosperma dyeri 'Psdold' Red Mountain.
ToxicityTo humans
Delosperma dyeri, commonly known as ice plant, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no common symptoms associated with poisoning from ice plants, as they are generally considered to be safe. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and not consume any parts of ornamental plants unless they are known to be edible.
To pets
Ice plant is not known to be toxic to pets either. It is considered non-toxic for animals such as dogs and cats. There are no typical symptoms of poisoning because it is not expected to cause any harm if ingested by pets. However, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and ingestion of any plant material can sometimes result in gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the plant matter itself rather than toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
0.25 feet (7.62 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60.96 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought resistance: 'Psdold' is extremely tolerant of dry conditions once established, requiring minimal watering.
- Low maintenance: It needs very little care, making it ideal for gardeners who have limited time or are looking for easy-to-care-for plants.
- Ground cover: The plant forms a dense mat, which can help reduce weed growth and soil erosion.
- Attractive foliage: This succulent has vibrant green leaves that can add texture and color to a garden.
- Bright flowers: It produces eye-catching red flowers that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any landscape.
- Hardy nature: It can survive in a variety of soil types and withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a versatile choice for different gardens.
- Pollinator-friendly: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Fast-growing: The plant establishes quickly, offering swift ground coverage and visual interest.
- Long blooming season: It has a lengthy blooming period from spring into fall, providing lasting color in the garden.
- Cold tolerance: 'Psdold' can endure cold temperatures, making it suitable for gardens in cooler regions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ground cover in model railroading: Delosperma dyeri, known as Red Mountain Flame, could be a vibrant addition to miniature landscapes in model railroads, establishing a lush, textured ground that resembles fiery foliage in scale scenery.
- Educational tool in botany classes: Red Mountain Flame specimens can be used to teach students about succulent plant adaptations, drought tolerance, and fire mimicry strategies in plants.
- Crafting natural dye: The plant's bright flowers may offer a natural dye option for fabrics or paper, contributing rich orange to red hues, depending on mordant used.
- Photography subject for macro photography: The intricate details and vivid colors of Red Mountain Flame flowers provide a striking subject for photographers practicing close-up photography.
- Lining walkways in sensory gardens: Due to its texture and color, Red Mountain Flame can be planted alongside pathways in sensory gardens to provide a tactile and visual experience for visitors.
- Heat resistance experimentations: The plant's ability to withstand high temperatures can be utilized in horticultural studies focusing on heat tolerance among different plant species.
- Theme gardens: Red Mountain Flame can be utilized in fire-themed gardens or volcanic replica landscapes due to its fiery-colored blooms and resilience to hot conditions.
- Culinary garnish: While typically not recognized as an edible plant, the petals of Red Mountain Flame could be explored as a potential colorful garnish for exotic dishes after ensuring they are non-toxic and safe to consume.
- Creative writing inspiration: The distinct appearance of the Red Mountain Flame may serve as a vivid subject for poetry and creative writing, evoking themes of resilience and vibrancy in harsh environments.
- Art projects: Pressing the flowers of Red Mountain Flame for art projects may create visually appealing elements in collages, mixed media art, or botanical prints.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Ice Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Ice Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Survival and Resilience: Delosperma dyeri, commonly known as 'Ice Plant', often symbolizes survival and resilience due to its capability to thrive in dry, arid conditions and poor soils.
- Hope and Optimism: The bright, vibrant flowers of the Ice Plant are reminiscent of the sun, representing positivity, optimism, and the promise of brighter days.
- Adaptability: As a succulent that adjusts well to varying weather conditions and drought, the Ice Plant is a symbol of adaptability and the ability to prosper despite challenges.
- Tenacity: The Ice Plant's capacity to root and spread quickly mirrors the qualities of determination and tenacity, representing an individual's will to push forward.
WaterIce Plant requires well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly to prevent root rot. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water the plant once every two weeks with about 1 inch of water. Ensure the soil is almost completely dry before watering again. In the fall and winter, reduce the frequency to once a month or less, depending on the humidity and temperature of your area. Overwatering can be more detrimental than underwatering for this drought-tolerant plant.
LightIce Plant thrives in full sun conditions, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom profusely. It's best situated in a south-facing position where it can receive ample sunshine. Lack of sufficient sunlight may lead to fewer flowers and a leggier, less compact growth habit.
TemperatureIce Plant prefers warm temperatures and does not tolerate frost well. It can survive minimum temperatures of around 20°F but will not survive prolonged periods of freezing conditions. The ideal temperature range for this succulent is between 40°F and 90°F, with thriving growth occurring in the warmer end of this spectrum.
PruningPruning is seldom necessary for Ice Plant but can be done to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or dead foliage. Pruning is best done in the early spring before new growth begins. If the plant becomes too sprawling, cut it back to encourage denser growth.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Ice Plant (Delosperma dyeri 'Psdold') thrives in well-draining soil, often a mix of sand, loam, and gravel, with some peat or compost for organic matter. The soil should be neutral to slightly acidic with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingIce Plants, including the 'Red Mountain' variety, generally need repotting every 2 to 3 years or when they outgrow their pots and become root-bound.
Humidity & MistingThe Ice Plant prefers dry air and is tolerant of arid conditions, making it well-suited for low humidity environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light and ensure pot has drainage holes.
Outdoor
Full sun exposure and well-draining soil is essential.
Hardiness zone
5-10 USDA
Life cycleDelosperma dyeri ‘Psdold’, commonly known as Red Mountain® Flame Ice Plant, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in warm, well-draining soil typically in spring or early summer. After germination, the seedling emerges and grows into a succulent mat-forming perennial, spreading outwards through rooting at the nodes. The plant experiences vegetative growth during the warmer seasons, producing fleshy leaves and trailing stems that can withstand drought conditions. During late spring to early autumn, the Red Mountain® Flame Ice Plant blooms with bright orange to scarlet flowers, attracting pollinators and setting seed for future generations. Once pollinated, the flowers give way to small capsules that release seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. In winter, the plant may go dormant, especially in colder climates, but its evergreen foliage typically persists, and with the return of favorable conditions, it resumes active growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Delosperma dyeri Red Mountain, commonly referred to as 'Red Mountain Flame', is often propagated through cuttings, which is the most popular method. The best time to take cuttings is during the warmer months, from late spring through early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by cuttings, select a healthy, disease-free stem and cut a 2 to 4-inch length, using a clean, sharp cutting tool. Let the cutting dry for a day or two to allow the cut end to callous over, reducing the risk of rot. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, water sparingly until roots develop, and ensure it is placed in a warm, bright area without direct sunlight. With proper care, the cutting will take root in a few weeks, after which it can be gradually introduced to the typical growing conditions of mature 'Red Mountain Flame' plants.
