Origin
Dorotheanthus gramineus (Haw.) Schwantes forma albus (Haw.) G.D.Rowley, commonly known as white ice plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and coastal sands.
Common Names
White ice plant is commonly known by several names in different parts of the world, such as dew plant, trailing ice plant, and white pigface. The plant has earned these common names due to its unique leaves and flowers that resemble droplets of dew or ice crystals.
Uses
White ice plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant, primarily for its attractive flowers that bloom from late spring to late summer. The plant is suitable for use as groundcover, and its low-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers. Besides its ornamental value, the plant has some medicinal properties. The juice of the leaves is used in traditional medicine by the Khoisan people of South Africa to treat earache and toothache.
General Appearance
White ice plant is a low-growing, succulent perennial with trailing stems that can reach up to 25cm in length. The leaves are small, cylindrical, and fleshy, with sharp tips and a glistening appearance, usually in shades of green, yellow, or pinkish-red. The flowers are daisy-like and white, with a yellow center and a delicate texture. They bloom from spring to late summer and attract bees and butterflies. The plant requires minimal care and thrives in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.
Light requirements
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant. Placing the plant near a window that receives bright but filtered light is ideal. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives morning or evening sunlight.
Temperature requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage to the plant, while frost will kill it quickly.
Soil requirements
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of standard potting soil and coarse sand is ideal. The sand improves the drainage of the soil and prevents the plant from sitting in soggy soil. It is also important to ensure that the container has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
Cultivation Methods for Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus, also known as White Gazania, is a drought-tolerant plant that flourishes in full sun. It is not high-maintenance, making it an excellent option for inexperienced gardeners. The plant thrives in well-draining, sandy soil that has a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is best suited for USDA Zones 9 to 11 and can be grown in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets.
Watering Needs for Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus is a drought-resistant plant that does not require frequent watering. It prefers dry soil and only needs to be watered when the top inch of soil is entirely dry, to avoid root rot. Overwatering can harm the plant and cause it to wilt.
Fertilization for Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus does not demand a lot of nutrients. However, a little fertilizer can assist it in developing larger flowers and maintaining its compact shape. A slow-release fertilizer or a balanced liquid fertilizer can be used during the growing season. Over-fertilizing the plant can harm the roots and have a negative impact on its blooming.
Pruning Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus does not necessitate significant pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy or unruly, then cutting it back by one-third can help keep it in shape. To encourage continuous blooming, spent blooms from the plant should be removed regularly. Pinching the tips of the branches early during the growing season can also help stimulate bushier growth.
Propagation of Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus
Dorotheanthus gramineus forma albus, commonly known as white ice plant, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is a popular groundcover due to its attractive white flowers and easy-to-grow nature. The propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
White ice plant seeds are readily available in most garden centers. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or early summer when the temperature is warm. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil consistently moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have developed their true leaves, thin them out to ensure that there is enough space for each plant to grow.
Cutting Propagation
Another effective way to propagate white ice plant is through cuttings. Take a stem cutting of about 3 inches long with a sharp, clean knife or scissors. Remove the lower leaves and allow the wound to dry for a day before planting the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil lightly to moisten it and cover the pot with a plastic bag or a propagator lid to retain moisture. Place the pot in a bright, warm location, but avoid direct sunlight. Once the cutting has rooted, remove the bag or lid and gradually expose the plant to more light.
Division Propagation
White ice plant can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the root ball of a mature plant into several smaller sections, each with its own stem and roots. To do this, first remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the roots into 2-3 sections. Replant each section into a pot filled with well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Keep the pots in a bright, warm location and water them regularly until the plants establish themselves.
Overall, white ice plant is an easy-to-propagate plant that can be grown successfully from seeds, cuttings, and division. With proper care and maintenance, this striking succulent can add an attractive touch to any garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Dorotheanthus gramineus (Haw.) Schwantes forma albus (Haw.) G.D.Rowley is known to be resistant to many diseases, but there are still a few that may affect the plant. One of the most common diseases is root rot, caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. To prevent this disease, make sure to avoid overwatering the plant, and ensure proper soil drainage. Using a well-draining soil mix can also help to prevent root rot.
Another disease that may affect the plant is leaf spot. This disease is caused by a fungus, and can be identified by the appearance of small, dark spots on the leaves. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and water the plant at the base instead. Also, be sure to remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly.
Pest Management
Although Dorotheanthus gramineus (Haw.) Schwantes forma albus (Haw.) G.D.Rowley is not prone to many pests, there are still a few that may cause problems. One of the most common pests is the spider mite, which can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant in a humid environment, and mist the leaves regularly to prevent them from drying out. If you do notice spider mites on the plant, use a neem oil solution to control the infestation.
Another pest that may affect the plant is the mealybug. Mealybugs can be identified by their white, cottony appearance, and can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent mealybugs, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area, and avoid overwatering to prevent excess moisture. If you do notice mealybugs on the plant, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
