Ice Plant 'Gold Nugget' (Delosperma congestum 'Gold Nugget')

Ice Plant 'Gold Nugget'

Delosperma congestum 'Gold Nugget'

Vibrant golden blooms carpet rocky slopes like scattered sunlight. Low-growing succulent groundcover; common name: Ice Plant 'Gold Nugget'.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun for maximum flowering; tolerates partial shade but produces fewer blooms in low light
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soil
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot, dry summer conditions; protect from prolonged standing water during frost
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, cylindrical, bright green, arranged in tight, dense clusters along trailing stems
  • Flower: Daisy-like golden yellow blooms, 2–3 cm in diameter, opening fully in direct sunlight
  • Stem: Succulent trailing stems that root at nodes to form continuous groundcover mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 5 cm of soil is completely dry; reduce watering during extended rainy periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flower production over leaf growth

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells to a fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium without risking nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage dense, compact growth
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering period
  • Thin overcrowded mats to improve airflow and reduce potential fungal issues
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and accidental ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Xeric groundcover, rock garden filler, container spill plant, green roof vegetation