Overview
Mesembryanthemum filipetalum, commonly known as Trailing Ice Plant or Trailing Mesembryanthemum, is a succulent plant species that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. This low-growing plant is native to South Africa.
Appearance
Trailing Ice Plant has fleshy, cylindrical leaves that are gray-green and up to 1 inch long. The leaves alternate along the stem and are covered with small bumps. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that are pink or magenta with yellow centers. The flowers bloom in the summer, where they open up in the morning and close at nightfall.
Uses
Trailing Ice Plant is an ornamental plant species that is commonly used in rock gardens, hanging baskets, and as a ground cover. Its trailing habit makes it a great choice for landscape edging, and it is also used as a filler plant in mixed containers. The plant is relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. Additionally, it has medicinal properties and is used in the treatment of various ailments in traditional African medicine.
Growing Conditions
Trailing Ice Plant thrives in well-draining soils and full sun. It is a drought-tolerant plant and only requires occasional watering once established. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Invasive Potential
Although Trailing Ice Plant is not considered invasive, it can naturalize and spread quickly in favorable conditions. Gardeners are advised to be cautious when planting this species near natural areas, as it can displace native vegetation.
Light Requirements
The Mesembryanthemum filipetalum needs a lot of light to grow properly. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in a location where it will receive full sunlight. Inadequate lighting will negatively impact the plant's growth and overall health.
Temperature Requirements
This species of plant prefers warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Mesembryanthemum filipetalum is between 70°F and 85°F. Any temperature below 50°F will cause the plant to go dormant, and it will not grow. Additionally, this plant may not be able to survive freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Mesembryanthemum filipetalum requires well-drained soil that is moderately fertile. An alkaline, sandy soil is ideal for this species, but it can also grow in clay soil with suitable drainage. The pH level for the soil should be around 7.5 for optimal growth. Excessively acidic or alkaline soil can negatively impact the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Mesembryanthemum filipetalum, also known as Livingstone Daisy, is a plant that requires full sunlight to thrive. It is adapted to dry and arid regions and grows best in well-draining soil. It can tolerate a range of soil pH and is not particularly sensitive to soil type. However, it benefits from occasional organic matter applications to promote healthy growth.
Watering Needs
This succulent plant has moderate to low water needs. It requires regular watering during the growing season (spring to fall). Water the plant when the top 1 inch of soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. During the winter dormancy period, water the plant sparingly to prevent moisture retention in the soil, which can cause damage to the plant.
Fertilization
Mesembryanthemum filipetalum is not a heavy feeder and can grow well without fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can help promote blooming and overall growth. Apply fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season and reduce or stop fertilization during the dormant period.
Pruning
To promote a bushy and compact form, prune Mesembryanthemum filipetalum regularly. Pinch or snip off the tips of the stems during the growing season to encourage branching, which will result in more flowers. Deadhead spent blooms to keep the plant looking neat and attractive. During the dormant period, reduce watering and avoid pruning to allow the plant to rest.
Propagation of Mesembryanthemum filipetalum
Mesembryanthemum filipetalum (L.Bolus) N.E.Br., commonly known as Dune Gazania or Wild Gazania, can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Mesembryanthemum filipetalum can be collected from mature plants and sowed in the spring. Prior to sowing, the seeds should be soaked overnight in warm water to soften the hard seed coat. The seeds should be sowed in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within two weeks at a temperature of 68-77°F (20-25°C).
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings of Mesembryanthemum filipetalum can be taken in the spring or summer. Softwood cuttings, taken from the tips of new growth, or hardwood cuttings, taken from the woody stems of older growth, can both be successful. The cuttings should be about 4 inches (10 cm) long and dipped in rooting hormone. They should then be inserted into a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Mesembryanthemum filipetalum is prone to certain diseases and will require disease management from time to time. The common diseases that affect this plant are powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
Powdery mildew
This disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant and can make them appear distorted. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove infected plant parts and maintain good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be applied to control the spread of the disease.
Root rot
This disease can be caused by over-watering or a soil-borne pathogen. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure proper drainage of the soil and to avoid over-watering. If root rot does occur, the infected plant should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants in the area.
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Mesembryanthemum filipetalum can also be attacked by a range of pests. Common pests that affect this plant include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and spotting on the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, regular inspection and early detection are important. They can be managed by washing the plant down with soapy water or horticultural oil or using predatory mites or other biological controls.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause wilting, distortion, and yellowing of leaves. To control aphids, it is important to remove infected parts and introduce natural predators, such as ladybirds, syrphid flies, or lacewings, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilted, yellowed, and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, regular inspection and early detection are important. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil, or manually by removing the infected leaves, using insect traps, or using natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps.
