Origin
Delosperma litorale, commonly known as Kensit's Delosperma, Beach Ice Plant, or Coastal Ice Plant, is a succulent plant species that originated from South Africa.
Common Names
Kensit's Delosperma is also known under a number of common names, including Beach Ice Plant, Coastal Ice Plant, and Oyster Plant.
Uses
Delosperma litorale is often used for ornamental purposes due to its colorful and attractive flowers. The plant is also drought-resistant and can tolerate salt spray, which makes it a commonly used ground cover in coastal areas.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows to around 4-6 inches tall and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The leaves are small, oblong, and gray-green in color. The flowers bloom in the summer, and are available in a range of colors, including pink, purple, yellow, and white. The flowers bloom around 1-2 inches in diameter and usually have a daisy-like appearance. Delosperma litorale has a moderately low-growing and spreading habit, with fleshy stems and overlapping leaves.
Light Requirements
Delosperma litorale requires full sun to grow properly. The plant thrives in direct sunlight and can tolerate high levels of radiation. It is an arid plant that is adapted to survive under direct exposure to the sun. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If the plant does not receive sufficient sunlight, it may become etiolated and begin to lose its vibrant coloration.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows in a warm climate and is sensitive to frost. Delosperma litorale grows best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate extreme heat and drought, but care must be taken not to expose the plant to frost. In areas with harsh winters, the plant must be planted in containers so that it can be moved indoors during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Delosperma litorale prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can grow in poor soil, but it thrives in well-amended soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil must be well-draining as the plant does not tolerate standing water. A soil mix that contains peat, perlite, and sand in equal proportions is suitable for the plant's growth. The soil must be kept relatively dry, and watering should be done sparingly.
Cultivation
Delosperma litorale (Kensit) L. Bolus, commonly known as the Shoreline Ice Plant, is a hardy succulent that requires well-draining soil and full sun to part shade exposure. The plant is native to the coastal areas of South Africa and can tolerate salty conditions.
The plant should be grown in sandy or loamy soils that drain water quickly. You can mix perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Repot the plant every two to three years using fresh potting mix.
Watering Needs
Shoreline Ice Plant is drought-tolerant and can survive extended periods without water. However, it would be best to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, especially when the soil is dry to the touch. You should reduce watering during the winter dormancy period to prevent root rot.
During watering, ensure that you soak the soil entirely, allowing excess water to drain off of the pot's drainage holes. Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of leaf rot and fungal infections.
Fertilization
Delosperma litorale (Kensit) L. Bolus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal fertilization. When growing the plant in a container, you can apply a balanced fertilizer twice a year, during the growing season and early winter. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant roots.
If planted in the ground, add slow-release fertilizer in the spring to boost growth. The plant does not require additional feeding during summer or autumn.
Pruning
Shoreline Ice Plant rarely requires pruning, as its growth habit is naturally neat and compact. However, the plant can benefit from light pruning in early spring or late winter before new growth emerges. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to remove dead or damaged leaves and stems. Pruning helps promote healthy growth, and it can increase the plant's flowering capacity.
You can also divide the plant every three to four years to control its size or rejuvenate the plant. Lift the plant from the pot or dig it from the ground and divide it into several clumps using a clean knife or shears.
Propagation of Delosperma litorale
Delosperma litorale, commonly known as Kensit's Delosperma, is a low-growing, succulent plant that produces bright magenta-pink flowers in summer. It is a popular plant for rock gardens, container gardens, and as ground cover. Propagation of Delosperma litorale can be done through various methods discussed below.
Propagating from Seed
Propagation of Delosperma litorale from seed is relatively easy. Collect the seeds from mature plants and sow them in well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently. Keep the soil moist but not saturated and place the container in a warm, bright location. The seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their second pair of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagating from Division
Propagating Delosperma litorale through division is a quick and easy method. Wait until the plant has finished flowering for the season and has gone dormant. Lift the plant carefully from the ground, taking care not to damage the roots. Gently tease apart the clumps and separate them into smaller sections, each with its own roots. Replant the sections in new, well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite. Water the newly transplanted sections and keep them moist until new growth appears.
Propagating from Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Delosperma litorale from stem cuttings is possible, but it can be a bit more challenging than seed or division. Cut a stem from a healthy, mature plant, making sure that it is at least a few inches long and has several leaves. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting into well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite and water gently. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a bright, warm location. It may take a few weeks to a couple of months for roots to develop, after which the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
With the above-mentioned propagation methods, you can easily propagate Delosperma litorale, and soon enough, you will have a beautiful and thriving plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Delosperma litorale
Delosperma litorale, commonly known as the Shoreline Ice Plant, is a succulent plant that is known for its ability to tolerate drought and heat. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that can affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the plant causing it to wilt and distort. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages the growth of fungus. One way to manage aphids is to spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are natural predators of aphids and can help control their population.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that feed on the sap of leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. They are difficult to see with the naked eye and can quickly spread from plant to plant. Regularly spraying the plant with water can help prevent infestations. You can also use neem oil or insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails are common garden pests that can damage the leaves of this plant. They usually feed at night and leave a slime trail behind. To manage slugs and snails, place beer traps or copper tape around the plant. You can also handpick them and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water.
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Signs of root rot include wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, stop watering the plant and improve drainage. You can also repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as dark spots with yellow halos and can cause defoliation if left untreated. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves. You can also use a fungicide to control the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can cause stunted growth and defoliation if left untreated. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also use a fungicide to control the disease.
By following these pest and disease management techniques, you can help keep your Delosperma litorale healthy and thriving.
