Origin of Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus, commonly known as the White Carpet or the Trailing Ice Plant, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the family Aizoaceae, which is native to South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the White Carpet or Trailing Ice Plant due to its low-growing, mat-forming habit and its leaves that resemble ice crystals.
Appearance
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus typically grows up to 10 cm tall with a spread of up to 60 cm. The plant has fleshy leaves that are green in color, triangular in shape, and covered with soft white hairs. The leaves are arranged opposite each other in pairs along the stems that trail and spread along the ground. During the summer, it produces small, white flowers that have a yellow center and a sweet fragrance.
Uses
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus is commonly used as a ground cover due to its spreading habit. It is best grown in rock gardens, borders, or as a container plant. The plant requires well-drained soil and full sun to grow and thrive. Moreover, it is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, and digestive disorders.
Light Requirements:
The Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus plant is native to South Africa and requires full sunlight to grow properly. This succulent plant can tolerate partial shade but needs up to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to promote healthy growth and flowering. It is best to place the plant in south or west-facing windows or outdoor areas with direct exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements:
The Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus plant can tolerate extreme heat and cold temperatures. However, it thrives in warm conditions between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. The plant can tolerate some frost but will not survive temperatures below 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements:
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH. The ideal soil mixture consists of equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss to improve aeration and drainage. Avoid using heavy clay or soggy soils because they can cause root rotting and stunted growth. Fertilizing the plant with a low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once a month during the growing season can also promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus needs to be planted in well-draining soil that is preferably sandy or rocky in nature. This plant thrives in full sunlight, so it is important to ensure that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight in a day. Over-watering should be avoided as Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus is very sensitive to water-logged soil and root rot is likely to occur.
Watering Needs
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus is succulent and is capable of storing water in its leaves. As such, this plant does not require frequent watering. Watering should be done sparingly, and only when the soil has dried out completely. Over-watering often results in root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. It is also important to avoid splashing water on the leaves as this increases the risk of fungal infections.
Fertilization
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus is not a heavy feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilization once or twice a year with a slow-release fertilizer is adequate. Over-fertilization can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become leggy.
Pruning
Delosperma obtusum L.Bolus is a low-growing plant that does not require much pruning. However, pruning can be done to promote branching and keep the plant looking neat and tidy. Pruning should be done in spring before the new growth appears. Simply use a pair of clean, sharp pruning shears to cut back the stems to the desired length.
Propagation of Delosperma Obtusum
Delosperma obtusum is a succulent plant that is popularly used for landscaping and as a ground cover. Propagation of Delosperma obtusum is relatively easy and can be done using several methods such as cuttings, seeds, and division.
Cuttings
Propagation of Delosperma obtusum using cuttings requires the use of a sharp and sterilized knife or scissors. Take a stem cutting from the plant while ensuring that it is about 8-10 cm long. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and allow it to dry for a day or two. Once dried, you can dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the newly planted cutting regularly but make sure not to overwater it.
Seeds
Propagation of Delosperma obtusum using seeds is also very straightforward. Collect the seeds from the plant and sow them in a well-draining and moist soil mix. Cover the seeds lightly with the soil and place them in a warm and bright location. The seeds usually take a few weeks to germinate, but with favorable conditions, they can germinate in as little as a few days.
Division
Propagation of Delosperma obtusum using division involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. To do this, dig up the plant and separate the sections using a sharp and sterilized knife. Make sure that each section has a portion of roots and replant them in a new location or pot. Water them regularly and give them time to establish and grow.
Propagation of Delosperma obtusum is an easy and fun way of creating more plants for your garden or for sharing with friends. With proper care and maintenance, the plants will produce lush foliage and colorful flowers that will add beauty to any landscape.
Disease and Pest Management for Delosperma Obtusum L.Bolus
Delosperma Obtusum L.Bolus, commonly known as the Ice Plant, is a popular succulent plant known for its vibrant and colorful flowers. Like all plants, the Ice Plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can cause damage to the plant. It is important to take preventive measures to ensure that the plant is healthy and free from pests and diseases.
Common Diseases
The Ice Plant is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be affected by various fungal and bacterial diseases such as Botrytis, Phytophthora, and Pythium. These diseases can cause leaf spots, stem rot, and root rot, which can weaken the plant and reduce its health and vigor. To prevent these diseases, it is essential to provide a well-drained soil, avoid excessive watering, and provide good air circulation around the plant.
If the plant is affected by any of these diseases, it is essential to remove the infected parts immediately and apply a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease. It is also crucial to water the plant at the base and avoid getting water on the leaves, which can encourage the growth of fungal diseases.
Common Pests
The Ice Plant can also be affected by various pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and reducing the plant's overall health. These pests can also attract ants, which can further damage the plant by protecting the pests and spreading them to other plants.
To prevent these pests, it is essential to provide good plant hygiene, remove any dead or decaying plant material around the plant, and avoid over-fertilization. If the plant is affected by any of these pests, it is essential to remove them manually by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap. It is also crucial to inspect nearby plants for any signs of infestation and take preventive measures to ensure that the pest does not spread to other plants.
Overall, the Ice Plant is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that can thrive with proper care and management. By taking preventive measures and addressing any issues promptly, it is possible to keep the plant healthy and free from pests and diseases.
