What is a Delosperma?
Delosperma, also known as Ice Plant, is a genus of succulent plants native to South Africa. They are known for their resilience and ease of care, making them a popular choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Delospermas have distinctive translucent leaf markings that resemble frost crystals shimmering in the sun, giving them their name. They are incredibly easy to propagate from cuttings and don’t require rooting powder. They can thrive in dry conditions, and their vibrant, daisy-like flowers only open in the warmth of the sun. They are a hardy choice for UK gardens, although some varieties may be susceptible to harsh frosts. Delosperma ‘Jewell of the Desert Collection’ is a hardy variety that boasts five different colours – red, yellow, white, pink, and orange – adding a splash of vibrant colour to any garden.
Delosperma: The Ice Plant that Brings Warmth to Your Garden
For almost a decade, I’ve been captivated by the sun-loving Aizoaceae family, a diverse group of succulents that adds a touch of Mediterranean charm to any garden. Among these delightful plants, Delosperma, commonly known as the Ice Plant, stands out as a true gem.
Delosperma is a genus of succulent plants native to South Africa, where they thrive in arid conditions. These resilient plants have earned their name for their distinctive translucent leaf markings, which resemble frost crystals shimmering in the sun.
Why Delosperma Is a Gardener’s Dream
Delospermas are incredibly easy to grow and propagate. Unlike many succulents, they don’t require rooting powder, making them ideal for even novice gardeners. A well-drained, gritty potting mix is all they need to flourish.
Their water needs are equally forgiving. Being succulents, Delospermas store water in their fleshy leaves, enabling them to thrive in dry conditions. In fact, overwatering is more detrimental than under-watering.
Their crowning glory is their vibrant daisy-like flowers, which only open in the warmth of the sun, adding a touch of whimsy to your garden. These cheerful blooms come in a wide range of colours, including red, yellow, white, pink, and orange, ensuring a riot of colour throughout the summer months.
A Hardy Choice for UK Gardens
While most Delospermas are hardy, some varieties may be susceptible to harsh frosts in the UK. If you live in a colder region, it’s advisable to protect your plants from severe frosts by placing them in a frost-free environment during the winter months.
Delosperma ‘Jewell of the Desert Collection’: A Hardy Delight
In my search for hardy Delospermas, I recently discovered Delosperma ‘Jewell of the Desert Collection’ from Thompson and Morgan. This stunning collection boasts five different colours – red, yellow, white, pink, and orange – adding a splash of vibrant colour to any garden.
Since planting my Delospermas in a non-heated greenhouse, I’ve been delighted with their resilience. They not only survived the coldest months but have also been blooming for three months straight, with new buds still forming.
Tips for Thriving Delospermas
To ensure your Delospermas thrive, remember to plant them in a sunny spot where their flowers will receive plenty of sun exposure. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot.
While Delospermas are generally low-maintenance, they can be susceptible to Downy Mildew (Peronospora mesembryanthemi). To minimize the risk of infection, follow these precautions:
Water your Delospermas early in the morning to allow their leaves to dry out during the day.
Avoid watering your plants during the colder months.
Don’t over or under-fertilize your Delospermas.
If you discover any infected plants, remove them immediately and dispose of them in the bin.
Embrace the Charm of Delosperma
With their ease of cultivation, vibrant flowers, and hardy nature, Delospermas are a true asset to any garden, adding a touch of South African sunshine to even the coldest of UK gardens. So, embrace the charm of these resilient plants and let them bring a splash of colour and vibrancy to your outdoor spaces.