The Story
Plant Bio
Delosperma nubigenum is a low-growing, succulent perennial with dense, mat-forming habit, featuring fleshy, green leaves and vibrant, daisy-like yellow flowers that bloom profusely in summer.
This species is highly drought-tolerant and well-suited for ground cover in rocky or poor soils, with a remarkable ability to withstand harsh, sunny conditions.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
4 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8
Water
Low
Humidity
Dry to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water sparingly until established, then reduce watering.
- Place in full sun for best flowering performance.
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize lightly with a cactus or succulent fertilizer during growing season.
- Mulch lightly to conserve moisture and control weeds.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil is very well-draining to prevent rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water only when soil is completely dry 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Use cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growth
- Prune lightly to maintain shape
Don't
- Overwater or keep in wet soil ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil
- Shade the plant
- Use high-nitrogen fertilizer
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Purple Iceplant questions
What zones can Purple Iceplant grow in?
Purple Iceplant is hardy in USDA Zones 6–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Purple Iceplant deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Purple Iceplant, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Purple Iceplant bloom?
Purple Iceplant typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Purple Iceplant need full sun?
Purple Iceplant does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Purple Iceplant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Iceplant 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 Purple Iceplant 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.