Ice Plant – Desert Horizon Nursery

Ice Plant

Delosperma cooperi
Categories:
Groundcovers  ·  
Ground Covers
Light
Full sun (afternoon shade in low desert)
Water
Low water once established. Water thoroughly, then allow soil to dry between waterings. Occasional supplemental irrigation is usually needed during Phoenix's extreme summer heat; reduce watering in winter.
Size
3-6 in tall × 12-24 in wide
Habit
Groundcover – trailing
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Description
A low-growing succulent groundcover with fleshy leaves and daisy-like flowers. ‘Gal Ice Plant’ does not clearly identify a species or cultivar; the following guidance applies generally to ornamental groundcover ice plants.
Bloom Time
Spring through fall
Deciduous / Evergreen
Evergreen
Special Features
Drought Tolerant
Growth Rate
Moderate to fast
Growth Habit
Groundcover – trailing
Mature Size
3-6 in tall × 12-24 in wide
Flower Color
Magenta to purple
Foliage Color
Bright green
Landscape Use
Border / Bed, Cactus / Succulent Garden, Container / Patio, Desert / Xeriscape
Garden Style
Container / Patio, Desert / Xeriscape
Soil
Sandy / Rocky, Well-Drained
Companion Plants
Blue chalksticks, Elephant bush, Smaller aloes
Non-toxic
Non-toxic
Care Instructions

Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade is safest in Phoenix. Avoid intense reflected heat from west-facing walls and pavement.

Water: Low water once established. Water thoroughly, then allow soil to dry between waterings. Occasional supplemental irrigation is usually needed during Phoenix’s extreme summer heat; reduce watering in winter.

Soil: Excellent drainage is essential. Use sandy or gravelly soil, raised beds, or a well-draining cactus mix in containers.

Mature size: Common groundcover types reach approximately 3–12 inches tall and spread 1–3 feet; confirm the botanical name for an accurate size.

Bloom: Usually flowers most heavily in spring, with possible repeat flowering in milder weather; timing depends on species and cultivar.

Evergreen / deciduous: Generally evergreen in mild winters; foliage may suffer frost damage depending on species.

Growth rate: Generally moderate to fast during favorable growing conditions.