Origin
Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus, commonly known as the hairy ice plant, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa.
Common Names
The plant is also known by different common names such as Hairy Stonecrop and Fine Hairy Ice Plant.
Uses
The plant is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and bright, showy flowers. Its low-growing habit makes it ideal for use as a groundcover or in rock gardens. It is also commonly used in container gardening. Some cultivars of Delosperma pilosulum have edible fruits and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
General Appearance
Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus is a low-growing succulent plant that forms a mat-like cover on the ground. The plant grows up to 10 cm in height and spreads up to 30 cm wide. The leaves are small, elongated, and covered with fine, hair-like structures, giving them a fuzzy appearance. The flowers bloom from summer to autumn and are bright, showy and come in shades of pink, red, and orange.
Light Requirements
Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus requires full sun or bright light for at least six hours a day. Inadequate light may cause the plant to become leggy and susceptible to fungal diseases.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus is 70°F (21°C) during the day and 50-55°F (10-13°C) at night. The plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. It is best to place the plant in an area with a temperature range that does not fluctuate too much.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and has a pH of 6.5-7.5. Sandy, loamy, and rocky soils are suitable for it. It is best to add compost or organic matter to the soil to enhance its nutrient content.
It is highly recommended that the soil has good drainage properties because Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus does not tolerate waterlogging. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Delosperma pilosulum is best grown in well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of hot, dry conditions. This plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or seeds, and it is essential to ensure that the cuttings or seeds are planted in the correct type of soil to avoid root rot.
Watering Needs
Delosperma pilosulum requires moderate watering during its growth stage. It is necessary always to let the soil dry out completely between watering episodes to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The plant should be watered more frequently during the hottest months of the year and less frequently during the cooler months.
Fertilization
Delosperma pilosulum benefits from regular fertilization, especially during its growing season. It is recommended to use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer once every two weeks during the months of growth. Be careful not to overfertilize the plant as this can burn its roots, which can cause permanent damage and affect its overall health.
Pruning
Delosperma pilosulum is a low maintenance plant, and it does not require any specific pruning technique. However, it is recommended to deadhead the plant regularly to encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period. Deadheading can be done by pinching off the faded flowers using your fingers or with a pair of scissors.
Propagation of Delosperma Pilosulum L.Bolus
Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus, also known as the woolly ice plant, is a drought-tolerant succulent that is native to South Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods such as cuttings, seeds, and offsets.
Propagation via Cuttings
Propagating Delosperma pilosulum through cuttings is a relatively easy and fast method. The best time to take cuttings from this plant is in the spring or early summer when it is actively growing. Take a cutting from a mature stem that is about 3 to 5 inches long.
Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder. Place the stem in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix and water it thoroughly. Cover the pot with plastic or a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Propagation via Seeds
Propagation of Delosperma pilosulum via seeds is another common method. Collect seeds from ripe fruit capsules and sow them in a well-draining soil mix in early spring. Cover the pot with plastic or a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment and keep the soil moist until germination. It usually takes 2-4 weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Propagation via Offsets
Propagation of Delosperma pilosulum via offsets is the easiest method. The plant produces offsets or baby plants around the parent plant, which can be easily separated and replanted in a pot with well-draining soil mix. Water the soil thoroughly and place it in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist until the plant establishes.
It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged at all times to avoid root rot. Delosperma pilosulum thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and well-drained soil. With proper care and attention, this plant will thrive and beautify any garden or indoor space.
Disease Management
Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus, also known as the hairy ice plant, is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases. However, there are a few diseases that may affect this plant, including:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that grows in wet soil. It attacks the plant's roots, preventing them from accessing vital nutrients and water. To manage root rot, it is important to maintain well-draining soil and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes spots of discoloration on the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering which can promote fungal growth.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating to form on the plant's leaves. It can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant, avoiding overcrowding, and removing infected leaves.
Pest Management
Like many other plants, Delosperma pilosulum L.Bolus is also susceptible to pest infestations. Some of the most common pests that may affect this plant are:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing the plant to weaken and not grow as well. To manage aphids, simply wash them off the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are small arachnids that feed on plant sap. They are difficult to see with the naked eye but can cause severe damage to your plant. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on plant leaves and buds. They cause damage by scraping the plant's surface and sucking out the juices. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
