Susan is also blogging at GardenRant.Delosperma cooperi / Hardy Ice Plant
Boy, they don't come any easier than this plant for sunny spots. Because they're succulent, they're drought-tolerant to the max, but can also tolerate rainfall if they're given good drainage.
Their bright fuchsia daisy-like blooms appear in mid-summer. The new variety 'Kelaidis' has apricot blooms.
Good on slopes or flat areas, and can be used to fill in around other drought-tolerant plants, like junipers.
Native to South Africa.
Photo courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden.
Detail
- A sun-lover, it's extremely tolerant of heat and drought.
- Grows to 6 inches
- Creeps up to 2 feet or more in good soil
- Semi-evergreen, and may have a reddish tint in winter.
- Hardy to Zone 5 when protected from excess moisture.
Care
- Needs good drainage.
- Very drought-tolerant.
- Cannot take foot traffic.
- Propagate by rooting cuttings in spring or summer.
Good Information in Print
- Covering Ground
by Barbara W. Ellis