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Description
Mesembryanthemum Inachabense, commonly known as the “Ice Plant,” is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a low-growing, sprawling plant with fleshy leaves and daisy-like flowers that bloom in shades of pink and purple. This plant is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Mesembryanthemum |
Appearance
The Ice Plant has thick, succulent leaves that are usually green or gray-green in color. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem and are often covered in small, white, bristle-like hairs. The flowers are daisy-like, with a central disk surrounded by petals that can range in color from shades of pink to purple. The plant typically grows to a height of 6 inches and can spread up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
The Ice Plant is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and can be watered sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The plant requires full sun exposure and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Ice Plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids or mealybugs. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the plant has well-draining soil.
Habitat
The Ice Plant is native to the Namaqualand region of South Africa, where it grows in rocky, sandy soils in arid environments. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes in many parts of the world.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can the Ice Plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Ice Plant can be grown indoors in a sunny window. It requires well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly.
Q: How often should the Ice Plant be watered?
A: The Ice Plant is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly. Water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can the Ice Plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Ice Plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Allow the cuttings to callus over before planting in well-draining soil.
Q: Does the Ice Plant attract pollinators?
A: The Ice Plant’s daisy-like flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to pollinator gardens.
Related Plants
- Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum
- Mesembryanthemum Cordifolium
- Mesembryanthemum Edulis
References
- “Mesembryanthemum Inachabense.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 22 Feb. 2018, http://pza.sanbi.org/mesembryanthemum-inachabense.
- “Mesembryanthemum Inachabense.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b682.
- “Mesembryanthemum Inachabense.” World of Succulents, http://worldofsucculents.com/mesembryanthemum-inachabense-ice-plant/.
