Delosperma ‘John Proffitt’ is a resilient and visually appealing ice plant cultivar, a type of succulent. This vibrant perennial is a popular choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant that delivers striking color. Its easy-care nature and bright blooms make it a desirable addition to various garden settings, thriving even in challenging conditions.
Key Characteristics of ‘John Proffitt’
Delosperma ‘John Proffitt’ stands out with its profusion of intense fuchsia or magenta-pink, daisy-like flowers, often featuring creamy white or yellow centers. These captivating blooms, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, cover the plant from late spring through fall, providing a long season of color. It forms a dense, mat-forming succulent groundcover, typically reaching 2-3 inches high and spreading up to 18-24 inches wide.
Its foliage consists of fleshy, bright green leaves, sometimes tinged with purple, especially during winter, adding year-round interest. This cultivar exhibits exceptional drought tolerance once established, a trait shared by many succulents. It is also remarkably cold hardy.
Planting and Care Essentials
Light Requirements
Delosperma ‘John Proffitt’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. While it tolerates some morning sun with afternoon shade, insufficient light reduces bloom production. An unshaded, sunny area is best, though protection from intense midday sun in extremely hot climates can be beneficial.
Soil Preferences
Extremely well-draining soil is paramount for the success of ‘John Proffitt’ ice plant. It prefers sandy, gritty, or gravelly soil mixes and will not tolerate heavy clay or waterlogged conditions. Poor drainage, especially during winter, can lead to fatal root rot. A soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is generally suitable.
Watering Needs
Once established, Delosperma ‘John Proffitt’ is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Newly planted specimens need regular watering to establish a strong root system. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between sessions. Avoid overwatering, especially during cooler months or in poorly draining soil, to prevent root rot.
Temperature and Hardiness
This ice plant is notably cold hardy, thriving in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9. It tolerates both cold temperatures and heat once established. Its winter survival is enhanced by sharply drained soil, as prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions can be detrimental.
Planting Guide
The ideal time for planting ‘John Proffitt’ is typically mid-summer in colder climates to allow for establishment before winter, or in the fall in hot summer climates. Space plants about 12 inches apart for mass plantings, allowing room for its spreading habit. For heavy clay soils, amending the planting area with coarse sand and gravel is essential to improve drainage.
Landscaping Applications
Delosperma ‘John Proffitt’ offers diverse landscape uses due to its low-growing, mat-forming habit and vibrant blooms. It functions well as a ground cover, forming a dense carpet that suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion, especially on slopes. Its ability to thrive in dry conditions makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens and xeriscapes, where water conservation is a priority.
Its trailing nature also makes it suitable for containers, where its fuchsia flowers can cascade attractively over the edges. It can be planted between stepping stones or along borders and pathways, providing continuous color and texture. Its minimal water requirements make it a practical and beautiful option for low-maintenance landscape designs.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Delosperma ‘John Proffitt’ is generally a low-maintenance plant, but the primary concern is root rot. This issue stems from overwatering or inadequate soil drainage, especially during periods of wet or cold weather. Ensuring sharply draining soil and avoiding excessive winter moisture are the best preventative measures.
The plant is largely resistant to most common pests and diseases. While generally pest-free, occasional issues with aphids or mealybugs have been noted. Simple maintenance tasks include occasional deadheading of spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout its long season. Light pruning can be performed in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape or remove any spent foliage.