The Story
Plant Bio
Delosperma sutherlandii is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent perennial with fleshy green leaves and a profusion of daisy-like, shimmering purplish-pink flowers.
Known for its ability to thrive in poor soils and drought conditions, this succulent is particularly favored for its extended blooming season and its tolerance of salt, making it ideal for coastal gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
4 inches
Width
24 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
Bloom period
Early summer – Late summer
In flower about 3 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in full sun.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for 2-3 weeks.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
- Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
- Mulch with gravel or small stones to prevent soil moisture retention.
Pro Tip
Use cactus or succulent soil mix for optimal drainage and root health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
- Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot
- Water sparingly during dormancy
Don't
- Avoid overwatering especially in winter ❌
- Do not use heavy clay soil that retains water
- Refrain from fertilizing excessively during dormancy
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Sutherland's Ice Plant questions
What zones can Sutherland's Ice Plant grow in?
Sutherland's Ice Plant 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 Sutherland's Ice Plant deer resistant?
Yes — Sutherland's Ice Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Sutherland's Ice Plant bloom?
Sutherland's Ice Plant typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Sutherland's Ice Plant need full sun?
Sutherland's Ice Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Sutherland's Ice Plant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Sutherland's Ice Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Delosperma to compare

Fire Spinner Ice Plant
Delosperma cooperi 'Fire Spinner'

Golden Wonder Ice Plant
Delosperma basuticum 'Golden Wonder'

Red Mountain Flame Ice Plant
Delosperma fasciculare 'Red Mountain Flame'

Hot Pink Wonder Ice Plant
Delosperma x hybrida 'Hot Pink Wonder'

Jewel of Desert Grenade
Delosperma x hybrida 'Jewel of Desert Grenade'

Hardy Yellow Ice Plant
Delosperma nubigenum 'Hardy Yellow Ice Plant'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Sutherland'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.
