Lampranthus aurantiacus is a perennial plant in the Aizoaceae family. This family is represented by a large number of genera, succulents mostly South African, and semi-desert. Lampranthus is succulent subshrub that grows up to 14 inches (35 cm) tall and spreads up to 5 feet (1.5 m) across. It has gray-green, 3-sided and up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long leaves. A flush of flowers covers the entire plant in late spring, and then it continues to flower sporadically through summer. Flowers are bright orange flowers with yellow centers and up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
Lampranthus aurantiacus is commonly cultivated in Europe, its main attraction being its flamboyant and generous flowering. Hardly rustic, it is grown in the open ground in coastal and Mediterranean regions, or used annually in colder regions. Lampranthus aurantiacaus can also be grown in pots, wintered away from frost.
- Scientific Name: Lampranthus aurantiacus Schwantes
- Common Names:
Orange Ice Plant, Orange Bush Ice Plants, Trialing Orange Ice Plant, Trailing Ice Plant - Synonyms: Mesembryanthemum amoenum
- Family: Aizoaceae
- Genus: Lampranthus
- Species: L. aurantiacus
Origin:
Lampranthus aurantiacus is native to South Africa and naturalized in gardens all around the world.
Hardiness:
Hardiness zones - 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
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| source photos: Pinterest, inlandvalleygardenplanner.org |
How to Grow and Care
Select a planting spot that will receive full sun, as these plants thrive in sun. Plant in average, well-drained soil during spring. Dig the hole twice as big as the root ball and space each plant 12 to 18 inches apart. Loosen the soil underneath the root ball to ensure the roots will grow easily into the ground.
Pack the soil tightly around the base of the plant to remove any air pockets. Use a shovel to push the soil down. Immediately water the plant until the top inch of soil is wet.
Water every two to three days or when the soil is dry. Overwatering will cause this plant to die, as it does best in dry soil. During the first growing season, water ice plants with 1 inch weekly to help establish the roots.
Use a general-purpose fertilizer each spring to help brighten the colors of the blooms. Use the recommended amount of fertilizer as stated on the package. Yellow to orange blooms will appear beginning in spring and last throughout summer...
- Learn more at HOW TO GROW AND CARE Lampranthus
Lampranthus species and varieties:
about 150 species in this genus: Lampranthus coccineum with red flowers, Lampranthus spectabilis with edible fruits, and many cultivars such as ‘Summan’ with yellow flowers
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| source pic: gardentags.com |
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| source pic inlandvalleygardenplanner.org |
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| source pic inlandvalleygardenplanner.org |
Links:
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