cactus succulent RHS Award

Sutherland's Ice Plant

Delosperma sutherlandii

$21.00

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:

Ornamental UsesDelosperma sutherlandii offers vibrant purple flowers that brighten rock gardens and containers, thriving in drought conditions.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance reduces water needs, making it ideal for xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsProvides ground cover that prevents soil erosion and attracts pollinators like bees.

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

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In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$21.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in full sun.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for 2-3 weeks.
  3. Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
  4. Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.
  5. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged rock garden borderSunny succulent patio planterDrought-tolerant groundcover

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.

Keep exploring

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.