Ice Plant
Mesembryanthemum crystallinum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Groundcover
Height
2 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Mesembryanthemum crystallinum, commonly known as the crystalline ice plant, is a succulent groundcover with fleshy, glistening leaves that resemble ice crystals and produces small pink or white flowers. This species is notable for its remarkable salt tolerance and its ability to accumulate salt crystals on its leaf surfaces, making it highly drought and soil saline resistant.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil after last frost.
- Mist cuttings lightly to promote rooting within 2 weeks.
- Ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth.
- Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between watering.
- Fertilize with a cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growing season.
- Mulch lightly to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water infrequently, especially in drought conditions 🌱
- Provide full sun for best flowering
- Use cactus fertilizer during active growth
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause rot ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Expose to excessive shade
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate |
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
Ice Plant questions
What zones can Ice Plant grow in?
Ice Plant is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Ice Plant deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Ice Plant, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Ice Plant bloom?
Ice Plant typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Ice Plant need full sun?
Ice Plant does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Ice Plant drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Ice 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
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Grow 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.
