How to Grow Ice Plant
Wikimedia Commons
Ice Plant
Delosperma nubigenum
succulentIce Plant is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent ground cover with fleshy, ice-crystal-like leaves that sparkle in sunlight. It produces bright yellow flowers in spring and summer and is exceptionally hardy and drought-tolerant. This alpine succulent is perfect for rock gardens, containers, and xeriscaping.
When should you plant Ice Plant in your zone?
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Example Ice Plant timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ice Plant
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ice Plant
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ice Plant dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-9; exceptionally cold-hardy for a succulent
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Establishment
2-4 weeksSmall transplants with compact rosette form and minimal foliage. Leaves may be green or reddish depending on light exposure.
Plant in spring or fall. Water moderately for first 2-3 weeks to establish root system, then reduce frequency. Protect from excessive moisture.
Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summerPlant spreads horizontally, developing dense mat of fleshy leaves. Leaves may deepen in color during cooler weather.
Minimal maintenance required. Ensure excellent drainage. No fertilizer needed; too much nitrogen reduces hardiness and increases rot risk.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (spring to early summer)Bright yellow star-shaped flowers emerge on short stems above the foliage. Flowers open in daytime and close at night.
Deadheading is optional but extends blooming period. Keep soil dry to maintain flower production and plant vigor.
Summer Dormancy
2-3 months (mid-summer)Growth slows significantly in heat. Foliage may appear less vibrant or stressed-looking.
Water rarely or not at all; plant relies on stored moisture. Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat (above 95°F). Do not fertilize.
Winter Dormancy
3-4 months (fall/winter)Foliage often turns deep red, burgundy, or purple as temperatures drop. Plant appears almost dormant.
No watering needed except in extreme drought. Excellent cold tolerance down to -20°F (-29°C). No protection required in most zones.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; improve air circulation; avoid overwatering which encourages infestations
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Prevention is key: use well-draining soil, reduce watering, avoid dense crowding. Remove affected plants; do not amend soil with compost
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Inspect regularly; remove with rubbing alcohol or horticultural oil spray if infestations occur
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap; usually minor issue on healthy plants
Uses
Drought-tolerant landscaping
HouseholdIdeal for xeriscaping, water-wise gardens, and areas with low rainfall or water restrictions. Reduces landscape maintenance and water consumption significantly. [source]
Ground cover and pathway edging
HouseholdForms dense mats that suppress weeds and prevent erosion on slopes and rocky areas. Perfect for crevices, rock gardens, and alpine troughs. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeBright yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators during spring and summer bloom periods. [source]
Container and alpine gardening
CraftExcellent choice for succulent containers, troughs, living roofs, and hypertufa gardens. Thrives in pots with minimal maintenance. [source]
Cold-hardy alternative to tender succulents
HouseholdUnlike many succulents, Ice Plant survives harsh winters outdoors and requires no greenhouse protection, making it valuable for northern gardeners. [source]
Harvest Tips
Ice Plant is ornamental and not harvested for food. Enjoy flowers throughout the blooming season. Can be cut for drought-tolerant floral arrangements.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Ice Plant' refers to the frosted, crystalline appearance of the leaf surface, caused by modified papillae (tiny hair-like projections) that reflect light and help protect the plant from intense UV radiation.
- 🌱 Delosperma nubigenum is native to the high alpine regions of South Africa and can survive temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C), making it one of the hardiest succulents available and defying the stereotype that all succulents are tender.
- 🌱 The plant exhibits thermonasty—the ability to open and close its flowers in response to temperature changes, opening during warm daylight hours and closing at night, which protects pollen and conserves moisture.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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