Ice Plant is a common name for a group of succulent groundcovers. These plants are highly popular in landscaping, particularly for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and areas requiring tough, low-maintenance coverage. Their fleshy foliage and vibrant, daisy-like flowers make them an attractive choice for dry, sunny locations. The name itself comes from the plant’s tiny, light-reflecting hairs, which resemble ice crystals glistening on the leaves.
Identifying Popular Ice Plant Varieties
The name “Ice Plant” refers to a number of species within the Aizoaceae family, primarily concentrated in the genera Delosperma and Lampranthus. The Delosperma genus is often referred to as the hardy ice plant and is the most cold-tolerant option available to gardeners. These varieties are typically hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9, making them a suitable perennial choice for regions with colder winters. Delosperma generally forms a dense, low-growing mat, with flowers that are somewhat smaller than their counterparts.
In contrast, Lampranthus species are less cold-tolerant, generally surviving only in USDA Zones 8 to 11. Gardeners in cooler climates must treat them as annuals or container plants that require winter protection. Lampranthus varieties are frequently showier, producing larger, more vibrant blooms that often sit slightly more upright on the plant. While both types feature succulent leaves and brilliant flowers in colors like magenta, orange, and yellow, the difference in hardiness is the most significant factor influencing a buyer’s selection.
Retail Channels for Purchasing Ice Plant
Local nurseries and independent garden centers are excellent sources because they often stock varieties that are already adapted to the regional climate. These locations also offer the advantage of expert staff who can provide specific, localized planting and care advice.
Big-box stores, like large home improvement centers, provide convenience and competitive pricing, especially for common varieties like Delosperma cooperi. These retailers source plants in bulk, which translates to lower costs. Their selection is often limited to the most popular types. When purchasing from a big-box store, the quality of care the plant has received may be inconsistent, so a thorough inspection is important.
Online specialty retailers offer the widest selection, including unique or newly developed cultivars that may not be available locally. Plants purchased online are often shipped as small plugs or bare-root starts, which is a cost-effective way to buy large quantities for groundcover projects. Buying online requires careful consideration of the retailer’s shipping practices, and the plants must endure a period of transit before they arrive.
Selecting Healthy Plants and Planting Guidance
When selecting an ice plant, look for clear indicators of health. The foliage should be firm and plump, with a vibrant green color, as soft, mushy, or yellowing leaves can signal overwatering or root rot. Inspect the undersides of the leaves and stems for signs of pests, such as webbing, sticky residue, or small insects, which can quickly spread to other plants.
Ice plants require a site that receives full sun, ideally six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day, as insufficient light will severely limit their blooming. Well-draining soil is necessary. For heavy or clay soils, incorporating sand, gravel, or perlite is necessary to prevent water from pooling around the roots.
Plant the ice plants in a hole that is only as deep as the nursery container, spreading the roots gently before backfilling with soil. Water the newly planted ice plants thoroughly to settle the soil, but then allow the soil to dry out completely between subsequent waterings. While they are establishing themselves, they may require regular watering for the first season, but once established, ice plants are highly drought-tolerant.