Origin and Common Names
Delosperma neethlingiae (L.Bolus) Schwantes, commonly known as Neethling's Ice Plant, is native to South Africa. It is named after Miss Dulcie Neethling, a South African botanist who made significant contributions to the field of botany in the early 1900s.
Description and Appearance
Delosperma neethlingiae is a perennial succulent plant that grows low to the ground, forming a dense mat of foliage. Its leaves are fleshy and cylindrical, with a blue-green hue. The plant produces small white or yellow flowers, which bloom in the summer months.
Neethling's Ice Plant has a spreading growth habit and can reach up to 10 centimeters in height. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought, making it an ideal choice for rock gardens, terraces, and other areas with poor soil.
Uses
The Neethling's Ice Plant is often cultivated for ornamental purposes, due to its low maintenance and striking appearance. Its showy blooms and spreading habit make it an excellent groundcover or border plant. Additionally, it can be used to prevent soil erosion on slopes or hillsides, as its dense roots anchor the soil firmly in place.
In addition to its ornamental uses, Delosperma neethlingiae is known for its medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used to treat stomach ailments and respiratory infections in South African indigenous medicine.
Light Requirements
Delosperma neethlingiae requires a full sun exposure to partial shade with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Without sufficient light, the plant may not thrive, become weak and vulnerable to diseases and infestations, or fail to produce flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to South Africa, where the climate is mild to hot. Therefore, Delosperma neethlingiae typically prefers warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 60 ºF to 85 ºF during the day, and 40 ºF to 65 ºF at night. The plant can tolerate some level of cold down to 20 ºF, especially if it is kept dry and protected from frost. However, prolonged exposure to low temperatures or high humidity can cause rotting, leaf spotting, or other issues.
Soil Requirements
Delosperma neethlingiae grows well in a well-drained, sandy or gritty soil that is low in organic matter and has a slightly acidic to neutral pH. A typical mix would include 50% coarse sand, 25% peat, and 25% perlite or pumice. Avoid dense or clayey soils or those that retain moisture for long periods. The plant is tolerant of drought and can go without water for a while, but it should not be left too dry.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma neethlingiae (L.Bolus) Schwantes is a hardy perennial succulent that requires minimal care. To cultivate this plant successfully, it is advisable to grow it in well-draining soil. You could also add a layer of sand beneath the plant to enhance the drainage system. The plant thrives in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. When growing the plant outdoors in cooler climates, it is better to plant it in spring when the soil has warmed up. In areas with extreme winter temperatures, it is best to plant it in containers.
Watering Needs
Delosperma neethlingiae (L.Bolus) Schwantes is drought tolerant and does not require significant amounts of water. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to its growth. Ensure that you water the plant only when the soil has completely dried out. When growing the plant in containers, it is advisable to water it from beneath to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Delosperma neethlingiae (L.Bolus) Schwantes does not require much fertilization, and excessive amounts of fertilizers can lead to its demise. You could apply a slow-release fertilizer during the summer months to promote blooming. Alternatively, you could add a thin layer of compost to the soil to help the plant grow healthier.
Pruning
Pruning the plant is unnecessary, but you could pinch off the spent flowers to promote blooming. Delosperma neethlingiae (L.Bolus) Schwantes grows in a low spreading habit and requires minimal maintenance to maintain its shape.
Propagation of Delosperma neethlingiae
Delosperma neethlingiae (L.Bolus) Schwantes, commonly known as the Van Staden's River Stonecrop, is a small, succulent plant that belongs to the ice plant family (Aizoaceae). This plant is endemic to South Africa and is popularly grown for its dazzling flowers that bloom in winter and spring. Propagation of Delosperma neethlingiae through various methods is quite easy and rewarding.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common and easiest method of propagating Delosperma neethlingiae is by seeds. The seeds of this plant are usually produced during summer and early autumn which can be collected once they ripen. The process of collecting seeds is simple, and it involves collecting the seedpods from the mature plant, allowing them to dry, and then splitting them open to get the seeds. Sow seeds in a well-draining soil mixture that is lightly moist, cover them with a thin layer of soil, and keep them in filtered light. The seeds will usually take approximately 2-4 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another method of propagating Delosperma neethlingiae is by cuttings. For this method, take cuttings from mature, healthy plants during late spring or early summer when they are actively growing. Carefully cut a 2-3 inch stem section from the parent plant, ensuring that it is free from any diseases. Dip the cut ends of the stem in rooting hormone and plant the cuttings in a pot containing well-draining soil mix that is slightly moist. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to form a mini greenhouse, and place it in a warm, bright location with filtered light. After a few weeks, the cuttings will begin rooting, and new growth will start to appear.
Propagation by Division
Delosperma neethlingiae can also be propagated through division. Divide the mature plants during the dormant period, which is generally in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Gently dig up the plant, clean off any soil, and carefully split the plant into several smaller clumps. Replant each clump in well-draining soil mix, ensuring that the roots are gently spread out. Water each clump well and keep them in a slightly shaded area to allow the roots to establish before relocation.
Disease and Pest Management for Delosperma neethlingiae
Delosperma neethlingiae is a hardy succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a popular plant for landscaping, and it is easy to care for. However, even with proper care, this plant can still be vulnerable to diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Delosperma neethlingiae and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem that affects many succulent plants, and Delosperma neethlingiae is no exception. This disease is caused by a variety of fungi and bacteria that thrive in wet soil conditions. To prevent root rot, make sure to plant Delosperma neethlingiae in well-draining soil and only water the plant when the soil is completely dry.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To prevent this disease, make sure to plant Delosperma neethlingiae in an area with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew does appear, you can treat it with a fungicide spray.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the sap of plants. They usually appear on the leaves and stems of the plant. To get rid of mealybugs, you can wipe them off the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the sap of plants and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent spider mites, make sure to keep the plant's environment humid and the leaves clean. You can also use insecticidal soap to get rid of spider mites.
By taking these precautions and acting fast if you do notice a problem, you can keep Delosperma neethlingiae healthy and vibrant.
