Delosperma cooperi
Delosperma cooperiUSDA | Grow Zone
5-9Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 9. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 20°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6+ hours
- Water
- Every 2-3 weeks
- Humidity
- 30-50%
- Temperature
- 65-80°F (18-27°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
Delosperma cooperi, known as the trailing ice plant, is a vibrant succulent native to South Africa. Its stunning flowers and drought tolerance make it a popular choice for gardens and containers.
Ask Vesper about Delosperma cooperi
Ideal temperature
65-80°F is where it grows fastest. Below 20°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Delosperma cooperi, commonly known as the trailing ice plant, prefers to be watered deeply but infrequently.
Water the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In winter, reduce watering to once a month. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and shriveling.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
It is ideal for placement in a south or west-facing garden bed or container. Delosperma cooperi can tolerate partial shade but may not flower as profusely in lower light conditions.
Soil
Delosperma cooperi prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A sandy or rocky potting mix is recommended, ideally mixed with perlite or pumice to enhance drainage. Avoid heavy soils that retain moisture, as this can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This plant prefers low to moderate humidity levels, ideally around 30-50%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the plant occasionally or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of humidity stress include browning leaf tips and stunted growth.
Temperature
Delosperma cooperi thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
It can tolerate brief periods of cold down to 20°F (-6°C) but should be protected from frost. In summer, ensure it is not exposed to extreme heat without adequate water.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
In fall and winter, refrain from fertilizing as the plant enters dormancy. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves.
Pruning
Prune Delosperma cooperi in early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms throughout the growing season.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs that it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. When repotting, gently remove the plant from its pot, loosen the roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or seeds.
For stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from healthy plants, allow them to callous for a day, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Water lightly until roots develop. Seeds can be sown in spring, covering them lightly with soil and keeping them moist until germination.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Often caused by over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Ensure the soil dries out between waterings and improve drainage.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil leading to fungal infections.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure proper drainage; consider repotting into fresh, dry soil.
Wilting
Why it happens
Under-watering or extreme heat.
How to fix it
Water the plant thoroughly and ensure it is not exposed to excessive heat without hydration.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or inconsistent watering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant and maintain a consistent watering schedule.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives full sun and consider fertilizing during the growing season.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, prune back any dead or damaged growth and begin a regular watering schedule as the plant comes out of dormancy.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives full sun and water every 2-3 weeks. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks to promote blooming.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. Stop fertilizing and monitor for any signs of pests.
Winter
In winter, water sparingly, about once a month, and protect the plant from frost. Ensure it is in a well-ventilated area.
Toxicity & Safety
Delosperma cooperi is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild digestive upset. Always monitor pets around plants.
Good to know
How often should I water my Delosperma cooperi?
Water your Delosperma cooperi every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Why are my Delosperma cooperi leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves may indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil dries out between waterings and improve drainage if necessary.
What type of soil is best for Delosperma cooperi?
Delosperma cooperi prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A sandy or rocky potting mix is ideal.
Can Delosperma cooperi survive winter?
Yes, Delosperma cooperi is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate brief periods of cold down to 20°F (-6°C).
How do I propagate Delosperma cooperi?
You can propagate Delosperma cooperi through stem cuttings or seeds. For cuttings, allow them to callous before planting in well-draining soil.
What are the signs of nutrient deficiency in Delosperma cooperi?
Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves. Regular fertilization during the growing season can help prevent this.
How do I encourage more blooms in my Delosperma cooperi?
To encourage more blooms, ensure the plant receives full sun, deadhead spent flowers, and provide regular fertilization during the growing season.
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