White ice plant is a resilient succulent groundcover, known for its vibrant blooms and low-growing, spreading habit. It is a popular choice for adding continuous color and texture to various garden designs.
About White Ice Plant
White ice plant refers to white-flowered varieties within the Delosperma genus, such as Delosperma congestum ‘White Nugget’ or Delosperma ‘Wheels of Wonder – White Wonder’. While “ice plant” is a general term for various succulents, Delosperma species are known for their hardiness. These low-spreading succulents reach only a few inches high.
It features thick, fleshy, often dull green leaves that can take on a reddish tint in bright sunlight. The plant produces abundant white, daisy-like flowers, often 1 to 2 inches in diameter, that can cover the foliage. Its common name comes from the tiny, glistening hairs on the foliage and flowers that resemble ice crystals. Native to South Africa, these succulents are well-adapted to hot, dry conditions.
Planting and Care
White ice plant thrives in full sun, needing at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering. This also helps prevent leggy growth. Well-draining soil is crucial for the plant’s health, as it is highly susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions.
Sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils are ideal, and the plant tolerates poor soil quality, making it suitable for challenging garden spots. Heavy clay soils should be avoided or significantly amended with coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage. When planting, ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, spacing plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for their spreading habit.
Once established, it is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, typically every one to two weeks, adjusting based on temperature and rainfall. Overwatering is a common cause of plant decline. During winter, reduce watering significantly as the plant enters a semi-dormant period, ensuring the soil remains dry to prevent rot.
Most Delosperma varieties are hardy in USDA Zones 5-10, tolerating both heat and cold. In colder climates (Zone 6 and below), providing winter protection like a dry mulch of straw or gravel can help prevent damage, especially in areas with wet winters. It requires minimal fertilization. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient, but avoid fertilizing in fall to prepare the plant for winter dormancy. Pruning is not necessary, but light trimming can maintain shape or remove spent blooms and winter-damaged foliage in early spring.
Uses and Benefits
White ice plant serves as an excellent groundcover due to its vigorous spreading habit, forming a dense mat. Its low-growing nature makes it suitable for stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion. Its ability to thrive in dry, lean soils makes it a popular choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
It is valued for its aesthetic appeal, producing bright white, daisy-like flowers from late spring through fall, providing continuous visual interest. This long blooming period ensures a vibrant display in the garden for many months. Its low maintenance requirements and drought tolerance make it a practical option for various landscape designs, including rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Common Challenges
The most frequent problem with white ice plant is root rot, which results from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or the plant appearing brown and withered.
It is resistant to most pests and diseases. Mealybugs or aphids can occasionally be observed. Fungal issues can arise in overly wet or humid environments, requiring good air circulation and dry conditions. While some ice plant species are aggressive spreaders, Delosperma varieties are well-behaved in gardens, though it is always prudent to check local regulations regarding plant invasiveness.