Hardy Ice Plant (Delosperma cooperi)

Hardy Ice Plant

Delosperma cooperi

It carpets dry ground with sparkling pink blooms, like living confetti. Low-growing succulent groundcover.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun exposure for optimal blooming; tolerates partial shade but produces fewer flowers in low light
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Watering Water deeply only when the top 5–7 cm of soil is completely dry; highly drought-tolerant, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands high summer heat up to 35°C; protect from prolonged standing frost in wet soil
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, cylindrical blue-green leaves arranged in opposite pairs
  • Flower: Daisy-like pink to magenta blooms with glistening papery petals
  • Stem: Trailing, mat-forming stems that root at nodes to spread rapidly
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when topsoil is fully dry; allow soil to dry completely between waterings

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can reduce flowering and cause leggy growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost drainage and add calcium; avoid direct root contact to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage compact, bushy growth
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend the flowering season
  • Remove any damaged or rotting foliage to maintain plant health and airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no toxic compounds identified

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, erosion control on slopes, and ornamental container edging