Origin
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis, commonly known as Deleeuw's ice plant, is a species of flowering plant in the Aizoaceae family that originated in South Africa.
Common Names
Deleeuw's ice plant has several common names, including Deleeuw's vygie, orange vygie, and Deleeuw's pigface.
Uses
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is commonly used as a ground cover due to its low-growing, mat-forming habit. Its orange flowers bloom in the summer and are attractive to bees and other pollinators. In addition, the plant is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
General Appearance
Deleeuw's ice plant is a low-growing, succulent perennial that typically reaches a height of 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) and a spread of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm). Its stems are prostrate and form a mat-like habit. The leaves are cylindrical and fleshy, and the orange flowers have a daisy-like appearance and are approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
Light Requirements
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis requires full sun to thrive. It is tolerant of high light intensities, which makes it suitable for growth in hot and dry regions. The plant can also grow under partial shade, but it may affect its flowering and color intensity.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis growth is between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The plant can tolerate temperature extremes, and it can survive up to -10°C (14°F) with proper protection from frost. High temperatures above 30°C (86°F) coupled with low humidity may stress the plant and affect its growth.
Soil Requirements
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis thrives in well-draining soils with a sandy or gravelly texture. The soil should have a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant requires good airflow around the root system to prevent root rot. It is also recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to improve nutrient retention and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It can be grown outdoors in zones 5-9 or indoors in containers. To cultivate this plant correctly, it needs to be grown in well-drained soil (such as cactus soil) that is rich in organic matter. The plant also needs to be placed in an area that receives full sun and good air circulation. You can start plants from seeds, cuttings or division.
Watering Needs
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis has low to moderate watering requirements, and you should avoid overwatering. Water the plant deeply once a week and let the soil dry out before watering it again. Reduce watering during winter months when the plant is dormant. When watering, it is best to avoid getting water directly on the foliage since this can lead to rotting.
Fertilization
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis has low to moderate fertility requirements. It is best to fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis does not require pruning, but you can trim back any errant stems that detract from the plant's appearance. It is best to do this in the early spring when growth resumes. Remove spent flowers as soon as they die to encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation methods for Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis
Propagation of Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis can be done through different methods which include:
Seeds propagation
The easiest and most common method to propagate Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is through seeds propagation. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix during late winter or early spring. It is important to provide bottom heat to stimulate germination, and the seed tray should be covered with plastic to retain moisture, but ensure to remove the plastic cover once the seedlings start to grow.
Division
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis can also be propagated through division of mature plants. This method involves separating the rooted plant into smaller sections and replanting them separately. It is best to perform division during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Cuttings
Another method to propagate Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season, ideally in early summer. Cut a stem with a clean, sharp knife and remove all the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist, and the cutting will develop roots in a few weeks.
Offsets
Offsets of Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis derived from rooted stems growing from the base of the plant or creeping along the ground. Carefully dig up these offsets when the mother plant is dormant, then separate them and plant them in well-draining potting mix at the same depth as the mother plant. Water the soil thoroughly until the roots are established.
Disease and pest management for Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis
Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is a succulent plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is always better to take preventive measures to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is root rot. This usually occurs when the plant is overwatered or when it is planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not sitting in water. Also, avoid overwatering and let the soil dry out between watering sessions.
Another disease that can affect the plant is fungal leaf spot. This usually appears as small brown spots on the leaves. To prevent this disease, avoid overhead watering as it can lead to the growth of fungus. Instead, water the plant at the base.
Common pests
The most common pests that can infest Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis are mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that usually appear on the underside of the leaves and along the stem. Spider mites are tiny, reddish-brown insects that can create a web-like appearance on the plant.
To manage these pests, you can spray the plant with a solution of soap and water or insecticidal soap. You can also wipe the leaves and stems with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Make sure to follow the directions on the soap or insecticide label and do a spot test before applying the solution to the entire plant.
In conclusion, Delosperma deleeuwiae Lavis is a relatively low-maintenance plant when it comes to diseases and pests. However, taking preventive measures and monitoring the plant regularly can help ensure that it stays healthy and thriving.
