Frosted Ice Plant (Delosperma pruinosum)

Frosted Ice Plant

Delosperma pruinosum

Frosted succulent foliage glows like frosted glass. Low-growing mat-forming succulent; common name: Dewy Ice Plant.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Requires full sun for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade in hot climates without significant growth reduction
💧
Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot; reduce frequency in cool, wet periods
🌡️
Temperature Tolerates short-term light frost down to -2°C; prefers daytime temperatures between 18–28°C for active growth
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Fleshy, cylindrical to triangular leaves covered in a frosty white pruinose coating
  • Flower: Daisy-like pink to purple blooms with bright yellow centers
  • Stem: Low, trailing succulent stems that root at nodes to form dense mats
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 2 months. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering over foliage growth

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days, dilute 1:10 before applying as a root drench; avoid leaving solid peels in soil to prevent pest issues
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to encourage compact, dense growth
  • Deadhead spent flower heads to promote continuous blooming throughout summer
  • Remove dead or rotting foliage to maintain airflow and prevent fungal growth
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens, container ornamental, drought-tolerant landscape plant