Ice plant: A colorful, drought-tolerant groundcover

Growing colorful plants in dry, sunny spots is possible, but many gardeners struggle with it. Conventional groundcovers may need frequent watering and constant maintenance, but they are impossible to maintain in hot and dry climate regions. Ice Plants (Delosperma and similar) are a perfect substitute.

With its bright, jewel-tone flowers and thick, fleshy leaves, Ice Plant is a drought-tolerant, low-care ground cover thriving where others fail. It can grow over rocky slopes, fill the borders of a garden, soften the edges of pathways, and add a ton of color with little to no effort.

Ice Plants require sandy or gravelly soils for optimal growth. Growcycle sells a range of garden soils and potting mixes that create the ideal growing medium.

Botanical Classification and History

Ice Plants are part of the Aizoaceae family of plants, which is a family of drought-resistant succulents of different types. Delosperma cooperi is the predominant species used for groundcover, but other species of Delosperma are also widely cultivated.

• Scientific Name: Delosperma cooperi
• Common Names: Ice Plant, Hardy Ice Plant, Trailing Ice Plant
• Plant Family: Aizoaceae

Its name comes from the little, shiny, crystal-like structures on its leaves. These structures reflect sunlight, giving the plant a frosted or “icy” look. These features prevent moisture loss and enable the plant to flourish in arid regions.

Historical Uses and Discovery

Ice Plants are native to South Africa and grow in rocky, well-drained soils. Indigenous communities traditionally used some varieties for medicinal purposes, including treating wounds and easing inflammation.

The species was introduced to Europe and North America in the 20th century as an ornamental ground cover for water-conservative gardens and erosion control. It was renowned for thriving in poor soils and hot climates, and became a gardener's and landscaper’s choice.

Native Habitat and Adaptations

Ice Plant is a native of semi-arid and coastal regions with full sun and little rain. In its natural South African environment, it thrives in:

• Loamy sand or rocky soils
• Other regional aspects include dry, warm climates with little to no frost
• There is no shady competition in open, sunny areas

These conditions have made Ice Plants a very hardy and adaptable species. It also has various significant transformations that allow it to thrive in prone to drought environments:

• Succulent Leaves: Its dense, succulent leaves hold water, so irrigation is required at longer intervals.
• Minimal Water Requirements: Flowers can often live on rainfall alone wherever they are growing, making them ideal for low-water gardening.
• Fast Growth and Spreading Habit: Fast growth consumes soil moisture and suppresses weeds.
• Sunlight Tolerance: Most plants droop in scorching heat, but ice Plants can handle full, blazing sun without folding over.
• Salt Tolerance: Certain species can survive coastal conditions, so they're perfect for beachside gardens and roadside. 

Ice Plant Varieties

There are numerous species and hybrids of ice plants, which vary in the color of the flowers, form of growth, and level of cold hardiness. Here are some of the most common choices:

Characteristics and Benefits of Ice Plant

Ice Plant's unique look, water-conservation capabilities, and ease of care have made it popular with successful landscaping under these conditions. It has aesthetic and functional uses and is an excellent ground cover for dry, sunny landscapes.

1. Visual Appeal

The most attractive feature of the Ice Plant is its clear visual, daisy-like flowers, which cover the landscape with color. They have long, brittle petals that reach outward from a center disk, creating a starburst. They are fully open in sunlight and frequently closed in the evening or on cloudy days.

Ice Plant is a large species and cultivar with flowers of different colors. The flowers usually bloom from late spring to early fall, and, given a warm enough landscape, some of the varieties will offer an extended display. Even out of bloom, the succulent foliage still gives the year-round green and texture in the landscape.

2. Drought Tolerance and Resilience

Ice Plants are real xerophytes that have developed particular adaptations to flourish in arid climates. They hold water in their thick, fleshy leaves so that they can go without rain for long stretches of time. This plant employs Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, which reduces water loss by absorbing carbon dioxide at nighttime, not during the day.

These adaptations make ice plants extremely drought-resistant and ideal for water-wise gardens in dry areas. 

3. Low Maintenance and Versatility

Ice Plant is also an extremely low-maintenance plant once it is matured. It:

• Requires watering only in extended dry periods
• The soil it grows in does not need to be fertilized
• Automatically prevents the growth of weeds by forming a thick mat
• It has few to no pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments

Ice plants are highly adaptable in soil conditions; so long as the soil is loamy, it can be planted. It performs well in:

• Beach or desert conditions (soils with heavy grains and stones, great for coastal and desert gardens)
• Gravel gardens and raised beds
• Both slopes and hillsides are areas where erosion control may be necessary
• Container gardens (provided that the pots have drainage holes)

How to Grow Ice Plant

Ice Plant is a water-conservative ground cover that loves hot, dry weather. With proper soil preparation and planting at the right time in the right place, these plants will effortlessly thrive and bloom from year to year.

1. Climate and Site Requirements

Full sun is a must for Ice Plant to thrive. It loves between 6–8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Plants in the shade tend to get leggy and have fewer flowers and weaker growth. The best locations are:

• Gardens that are south or west-facing and get the most sun
• Rock gardens, slopes, or coastal areas with little shade
• Gardens where the reflected heat from the pavement increases their growth

Ice plants need excellent drainage, which is the most critical soil factor. Being a succulent, it is highly prone to over-watering and root rot in soggy conditions. It is usually preferred:

• Soil that drains quickly; sandy or gritty soil
• Soil that is rocky or gravel-based, common in dry climates
• Loamy, mineral-rich soil with good drainage and low organic content

Tip: If planting in heavy soil, modify it with sand, perlite, or gravel to improve drainage. Higher beds or slopes also aid water drainage.

2. Planting Season and Timing

Ice plants can be planted at any time, depending on each area's climate, but spring and early fall are typically the ideal times of year.

• Spring planting allows the Ice Plant to get its roots in before the summer sun rips through. This head start promotes earlier blooming and a better growing season.
• Warm regions (zones 7–10) often favor fall planting. Cooler air and seasonal rain help the young plants settle in the soil and establish healthy root systems before winter.

Tip: If the area gets a colder winter (zones 4-6), the only plant in cold-resistant ice plants (like Delosperma bignum).

3. Propagation Techniques

Ice Plant is easy to propagate, making it a cost-effective and efficient way to expand a garden or restore areas with groundcover. There are two primary methods of propagation:

i) Seed Propagation

When to prepare ice plant seeds to grow them best and depends on local climatic conditions. Seeds indoors can be started 6–8 weeks before the last frost date, thus creating healthy transplants to plant out. Seeds may be directly sown outdoors into warm soil once the danger of frost has passed. The following is a step-by-step guide: 

1. Plant seeds in sandy soil from a moist, well-draining seed tray or garden bed.
2. Sprinkle the tiny seeds across the soil surface.
3. A light press of the seeds into the soil, but do not cover, as they need light to germinate.
4. Keep warm and bright conditions, preferably 65–75°F (18–24°C).
5. Mist lightly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
6. Seeds will germinate in 2–3 weeks and produce small green shoots.
7. Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, they're ready to transplant.
8. Harden seedlings carefully by putting them outdoors for a few hours each day over a week.
9. Plant directly in their permanent location with 12–18 inches between plants.

ii) Propagation from Cuttings

1. Select a healthy parent plant with vigorous, disease-free growth.
2. With sharp pruning shears, take a 4–6 inch (10–15 cm) cutting with a few leaves.
3. Put the cutting in the shade for 24 hours to dry. This develops a callus that guards against rot when growers plant.
4. Add a well-draining soil mix to the container or garden bed. They prefer sandy, gravelly, or cactus-blend soil.
5. Just poke the cutting in and press it down a little to give it a grip on the soil.
6. Lightly water to settle the soil in place, but don’t soak.
7. Place in a warm, sunny location, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
8. After about 2–3 weeks, growers should also be rooting and pushing for new growth.

Maintenance and Care Practices

While an ice plant is a low-care plant, proper care will keep it healthy, blooming profusely, and surviving for the long haul. Here are some easy care practices to grow this perennial:

1. Watering

Growers also need to regularly water a newly planted Ice Plant until its root system is established. For the first month, they need to water almost twice a week, leaving the soil moist but not soggy. Because it is established, it does fine with very little watering, fed mostly on seasonal rains.

Tip: Water in the morning so moisture can evaporate over the course of the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

2. Fertilization

Ice Plants do not generally need to be fertilized heavily, but a light feed will help with flowering and general health.

• Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 5-10-10) once at the start of the growing season (spring).
• Organic options include compost, worm castings, or diluted fish emulsion, which enrich the soil naturally.

3. Pruning and Shaping

They need regular pruning to keep them tidy, avoid getting leggy, and produce more blooms. Here’s how to prune and shape this plant:

• After flowering, cut back any overgrown or straggly stems to keep the plants compact.
• Clean away dead or damaged foliage for better air circulation and less chance of disease.
• If the plant spreads too aggressively, cut back excess growth to keep it where growers want it.

They can be lightly pruned during the growing season to maintain the desired shape. However, more thorough pruning should be done in late summer or early fall to help encourage healthy regrowth.

Tip: Do not go too deep into the woody base when pruning, as that will prevent regrowth.

4. Pest and Disease Management

Ice Plant is pest and disease-free, but some problems can occur under certain conditions.

• Aphids: These tiny bugs suck sap and deprive plants of their strength. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage infestations.
• Mealybugs: Look for white, cottony lumps on stems and leaves. Remove them with the fingers or rub alcohol on them with a cotton swab.
• Slugs and Snails: Can eat young plants. Use natural slug deterrents such as crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth.

• Root Rot – due to overwatering or bad drainage. Prevent by using well-draining soil and watering only as needed.
• Fungal Infections: In humid conditions, fungal infections may develop. Improve the airflow and treat with fungicide where necessary.

5. Seasonal Care and Overwintering

Ice plants stay green in mild winter climates (zones 7-10) and generally require little care. However, those growing in colder climates (zones 4-6) may dormant or die back in colder temperatures. It can even be used around roots to safeguard them from damaging frosts.

If Ice Plants are in containers, the pots can be brought to a protected location, such as a greenhouse, covered porch, or even inside, to prevent the freeze. 

Although Ice Plants are heat tolerant, during the summer months, extended heat and a lot of direct sun can scorch or dehydrate leaves. Watering infrequently and deeply is a good way to prevent the plant from drying out during heat waves. If the leaves look wrinkled or scorched, some temporary shade with garden fabric or light mulch will spare them too much sun.

Landscaping Ideas

Ice plants perform well in hanging containers, baskets, and even rooftop gardens, which is great news for gardeners with limited space.

• Patio and Balcony Planters: These trailing habits are ideal for spillover effects in a mixed container arrangement.
• Hanging Baskets: Ice Plant spills over the edges, offering a long-lasting pop of color throughout the seasons.
• Terrace and Rooftop Gardens: Ice Plant is a lightweight, drought-tolerant plant suitable for shallow, soil-based rooftop containers.

Design Tip: Combine Ice Plant with trailing flowers like Lobelia or trailing Sedum for an energetic, multi-layered effect.

FAQs

What is the best ground cover for Ice Plants?

Gravel, sandy soil, or well-draining mulch, such as crushed rock, is best for ice plants' ground cover. These materials prevent moisture buildup and mimic the plants' natural habitat, promoting healthy growth.

Where is the best place to plant Ice Plants?

Ice Plants grow best in full sun on well-drained sandy or rocky soil. They perform well in dry, arid climates and are ideal for slopes, rock gardens, borders, and xeriscape landscapes.

Is an ice plant a perennial or annual?

Ice Plant is a perennial in warm climes, returning year after year. But in the colder parts of the world, some species are not winter-hardy and are grown annually.

The Bottom Line

Ice Plant is one of the best groundcovers for dry, sunny areas, and it has a bold color and drought tolerance. Its spectacular flowers, low maintenance requirements, and drought tolerance make it a fabulous option for gardeners wanting to increase their outdoor spaces with minimal effort.

Ice plants are versatile and can survive in most settings, adding color and life year-round as ground cover, rock gardens, or pots. Check Growcycle to find the right gardening tools and fertilizers to keep the perpetual plants healthy.

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.