The Story
Plant Bio
Drosanthemum micans, commonly known as the 'Pink Ice Plant', is a frost-tender succulent perennial with trailing growth habit and vibrant pink flowers.
This species is noted for its unique sparkling foliage and ability to thrive in dry, poor soils, making it ideal for xeriscaping.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between watering during summer.
- Fertilize monthly with a cactus or succulent fertilizer during active growth.
- Prune lightly to shape and remove dead or damaged stems in late winter.
- Transplant in early spring when plants are established and weather warms.
Pro Tip
Use cactus soil mix for excellent drainage and healthy root development.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide bright, direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours daily 🌞
- Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings 💧
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead stems
- Fertilize during the active growing season
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Keep in low light conditions; it needs plenty of sun
- Use heavy clay soil that retains moisture
- Neglect pruning and deadheading
- Expose to frost; protect in colder zones
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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
Shiny Dew Plant questions
What zones can Shiny Dew Plant grow in?
Shiny Dew Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Shiny Dew Plant deer resistant?
Yes — Shiny Dew Plant is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Shiny Dew Plant bloom?
Shiny Dew Plant typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Shiny Dew Plant need full sun?
Shiny Dew Plant does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Shiny Dew Plant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Shiny Dew Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Shiny Dew 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.