Delosperma macei
groundcover

Mace's Ice Plant

Delosperma macei

The Story

Plant Bio

Delosperma macei is a low-growing, succulent perennial with fleshy, vibrant green leaves and daisy-like flowers that range from yellow to orange, thriving in sunny, well-drained soils.

This species is prized for its drought tolerance and vibrant, long-lasting flowers, making it an excellent ground cover for xeriscaping and rock gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides vibrant purple blooms and evergreen groundcover.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southern Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water lightly until established, avoiding overwatering.
  3. Place in full sun for best flowering results.
  4. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Fertilize with a cactus or succulent fertilizer during growing season.
  6. Divide every 2–3 years to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water sparingly during drought conditions 🌱
  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent overwatering
  • Fertilize lightly during active growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
  • Do not expose to frost without protection in colder zones
  • Avoid excessive fertilization

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sand-colored rock gardenVanilla-scented borderDrought-resistant groundcover

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mace's Ice Plant questions

What zones can Mace's Ice Plant grow in?

Mace's Ice Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mace's Ice Plant deer resistant?

Yes β€” Mace's Ice Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mace's Ice Plant bloom?

Mace's Ice Plant typically blooms in late spring to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mace's Ice Plant need full sun?

Mace's Ice Plant does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Mace's Ice Plant drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Mace's Ice Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Mace's Ice Plant with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.