groundcover

Ice Plant Starburst

Delosperma floribundum 'Starburst'

The Story

Plant Bio

Delosperma floribunda, commonly known as hardy ice plant, is a low-growing, succulent perennial with fleshy, evergreen leaves and vibrant, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink and purple that bloom profusely in summer.

The 'Starburst' cultivar is distinguished by its bicolored, daisy-like flowers featuring vibrant magenta-purple petals surrounding a contrasting bright white center.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple flowers and drought-tolerant groundcover ideal for sunny gardens.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Supports pollinators like insects attracted to its flowers, and stabilizes soil.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Groundcover

Height

4 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water lightly until established, then reduce watering.
Place in full sun for best flowering results.
Mulch lightly to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
Fertilize with a cactus or succulent fertilizer during active growth.
Monitor for pests and remove any affected leaves.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; avoid overwatering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly during drought periods 🌱
Provide full sun for vibrant blooms
Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
Fertilize lightly in spring

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Expose to excessive shade ❌
Use high-nitrogen fertilizer ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged groundcoverVivid purple border plantDrought-tolerant hillside cover

Companion Plants

Sedum EchinaceaLavender Agave Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ice Plant Starburst questions

What zones can Ice Plant Starburst grow in?

Ice Plant Starburst is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ice Plant Starburst deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Ice Plant Starburst, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Ice Plant Starburst bloom?

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

Does Ice Plant Starburst need full sun?

Ice Plant Starburst does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Ice Plant Starburst drought tolerant?

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