The Story
Plant Bio
Delosperma cooperi, also known as Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant, is a succulent ground cover characterized by its fleshy leaves and vibrant, daisy-like purplish-pink flowers.
This species is noted for its extreme drought and heat tolerance, making it ideal for rock gardens, slopes, and low-maintenance landscaping in sunny, dry areas.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
4 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting, about 2 weeks.
- Ensure plants receive full sun for vibrant flowering and healthy growth.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
- Apply a balanced cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness and remove dead stems.
Pro Tip
Use sandy or gritty soil to prevent root rot and promote healthy drainage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Water sparingly, especially in summer
- Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming
- Fertilize lightly during active growth
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
- Expose to deep shade, which reduces flowering ❌
- Allow soil to stay waterlogged ❌
- Neglect pruning after flowering ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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
Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant questions
What zones can Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant grow in?
Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant deer resistant?
Yes — Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant bloom?
Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant typically blooms in summer 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 Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant need full sun?
Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cooper's Hardy 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
Grow Cooper's Hardy 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.