Origin
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus, commonly known as the shrubby pigface, is a succulent plant that is native to the southern and western regions of Africa. It can typically be found in rocky, coastal areas, and dry riverbeds.
Common Names
The plant is known by various common names including The Ice Plant, Rosea Ice Plant, Lemon Delight, and Hardy Yellow Ice Plant.
General Appearance
Delosperma frutescens is a low-growing evergreen shrub that reaches a height of 20 to 30 centimeters with a spread of up to 30 centimeters. The plant has a sprawling habit and produces small, bright green, cylindrical leaves that are 1 to 2.5 centimeters long and 1 millimeter wide. The shrub has an abundance of pink, yellow, or white daisy-like flowers, which could be up to 3cm in diameter, that bloom between April and November.
Uses
The plant is commonly used for ornamental purposes in both indoor and outdoor spaces. It is used in rock gardens, hanging baskets, and as a ground cover. The flowers of the plant attract butterflies and bees, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens. The plant is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for beginners in gardening. The plant is also used in traditional medicine where the leaves are used to treat fever.
Light Requirements
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow healthy and bloom profusely. Insufficient sunlight can cause the plant to become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in warm temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (15-26°C). However, it can also withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) but may lose its leaves during colder months.
Soil Requirements
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus grows best in well-draining soils. It prefers sandy or gravelly soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. Soil that retains too much water can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0-7.5 for optimal growth. Adding organic matter like compost or manure can improve soil fertility and structure.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus, commonly known as trailing ice plant, is a drought-tolerant succulent plant that thrives in full sun conditions and well-drained soil. The plant requires a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, the plant can survive on natural rainfall, making it a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for gardeners looking for an easy-to-care-for option.
Watering Needs
The Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus plant is drought-resistant, and frequent watering may cause root rot, especially in poorly drained soils. As such, it is essential to avoid overwatering, ensuring the soil is dry before watering again. It is recommended to water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season while reducing the frequency during winter. Additionally, gardeners must avoid getting water on the plant, especially on its leaves and flowers, as this can cause them to rot.
Fertilization
The Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, introducing a small amount of low nitrogen fertilizer can help boost the plant's growth, flower blooms, and overall health. Gardeners must apply the fertilizer once every growing season, preferably during spring. Too much fertilizer can result in leggy growth, weak flowers, and ultimately harm the plant.
Pruning
The Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus plant does not require frequent pruning. However, gardeners can prune the plant to promote bushier and more compact growth to encourage flower production. Pruning should be carried out during the spring, and the process should involve removing the plant's dead flowers and trimming back leggy growth.
Propagation of Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus, also known as the trailing ice plant, can be propagated vegetatively or by seeds.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is the most effective method of propagating Delosperma frutescens. This method involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant and planting them in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be taken during the active growth period, which is in late spring or early summer. The stem cuttings should be approximately 6-8 cm in length and should be planted in a rooting hormone mixture before being placed in the soil.
The cuttings should be placed in a bright, indirect light and protected from direct sunlight. Water the cuttings sparingly until new growth appears, at which point watering can gradually be increased.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is also an effective method of propagating Delosperma frutescens, although it is less common. Seeds should be collected from a mature plant and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The best time to sow seeds is in the early spring.
The seeds should be planted just below the surface of the soil and kept in a warm, well-lit area. Keep the soil moist, but be careful not to over-water, as this can cause the seeds to rot. Once new growth appears, the seedlings can be gradually hardened off and transplanted into their permanent location.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to plant Delosperma frutescens in a well-draining soil mix and provide them with plenty of bright, indirect light. With proper care, these plants can thrive and provide colorful blooms year after year.
Disease Management
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus is susceptible to diseases that can limit its productivity and growth. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi and results in the rotting of the plant's roots. It can be managed by avoiding overwatering and ensuring proper soil drainage.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by bacteria and fungi and is characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by using fungicides and ensuring proper air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by fungi and appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. It can be managed by using fungicides and watering the plant from the base.
To prevent the occurrence of these diseases, it is essential to maintain proper plant hygiene, ensure proper soil drainage, and avoid overwatering the plant. Additionally, regularly inspecting the plant for signs of diseases can help in the early detection and management of any issues that may arise.
Pest Management
Delosperma frutescens L.Bolus is also vulnerable to pest attacks, which can significantly impact its productivity and growth. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. They can be managed by using insecticidal soaps and oils or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs into the plant's environment.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that spin webs on the plant's leaves and suck the sap from them. They can be managed by using insecticidal soaps and oils or by watering the plant regularly to increase the humidity around it.
- Thrips: These are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, causing them to become discolored and distorted. They can be managed by using insecticidal soaps and oils or by introducing natural predators such as mites and lacewings into the plant's environment.
Preventing pest infestations involves maintaining proper plant hygiene, avoiding over-fertilizing the plant, and monitoring it regularly for signs of pest infestation. Additionally, using row covers and sticky traps can help prevent pests from attacking the plant.
