Delosperma congestum ''Gold Nugget Ice Plant''

 Delosperma congestum, also called congested purslane, is a charming little succulent, native to the arid and mountainous areas of South Africa. Delosperma congestum is a true alpine species that forms a spreading carpet up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) tall.

 The congested purslane is part of the large aizoaceae family, like pebbles, but unlike this one, Delosperma congestum is hardy and easy to grow outside all year round. Upholstered and prostrate, it disappears under the flowers at the end of spring. It is a remarkable succulent plant that likes trough, dry rock garden or gravel garden.

  1. Scientific Name: Delosperma congestum L.Bolus
  2. Common Names: Gold Nugget Ice Plant
  3. Family: Aizoaceae
  4. Subfamily: Ruschioideae
  5. Tribe: Ruschieae
  6. Genus: DELOSPERMA


 

 Some popular varieties of ice plants include:
  • Cooper’s ice plant (Delosperma cooperi) – This purple ice plant is the most common variety
  • Hardy yellow (Delosperma brunnthaleri) – This species consists of lovely yellow flowers
  • Starburst (Delosperma floribundum) – An ice plant variety with pink flowers and a white center
  • Hardy white (Delosperma herbeau) – A white-flowered type that offers exceptional beauty

source photo: Pinterest

How to Grow and Care 

 Ice plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some light shade in the garden.

 Because ice plants are succulents, they do not tolerate wet soil, though they do well in poor soils. In fact, wet soil, especially during the winter months, is likely to kill the plants. In areas where the soil stays consistently dry, this plant can become invasive, so it is best to take this into consideration when planting it.

 The ice plant can be propagated by division, cuttings or seeds. If propagating by division, it is best to divide the plants in the spring. Cuttings can be taken anytime in the spring, summer or fall. When grown by seeds, scatter the seeds on the surface of the soil and do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.

 Once they are established, ice plants require little maintenance. As succulents, they need very little watering and thrive in drought-like conditions. In addition, these plants need little to no fertilizing. Simply plant your ice plant flowers and watch them grow...- Learn more at  HOW TO GROW AND CARE Delosperma  

Links: Back to genus Delosperma
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