Contents
Description
Delosperma Esterhuyseniae, commonly known as the Pink Carpet, is a perennial succulent that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. It is native to South Africa and is widely cultivated in gardens and rockeries around the world. This plant is an excellent ground cover that forms a dense mat of pink flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The Pink Carpet is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of only 2-3 inches and a spread of up to 6 inches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Delosperma |
| Species | Esterhuyseniae |
Appearance
The Pink Carpet has succulent leaves that are green-grey in color and grow in pairs. The leaves are small, measuring only 1-2 cm in length, and are triangular in shape. The plant produces small pink flowers that are up to 2.5 cm in diameter and have a yellow center. The flowers bloom in abundance from spring to fall, covering the plant in a vibrant pink carpet. The Pink Carpet is a low-growing plant that forms a dense mat and spreads easily.
Care Guide
The Pink Carpet is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The Pink Carpet is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The Pink Carpet prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Plant the Pink Carpet in a mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss to provide good drainage.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Place the plant in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The Pink Carpet is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pink Carpet is a hardy plant that is rarely affected by pests or diseases. However, here are some common problems that may affect the plant:- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure to water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Aphids: Aphids may attack the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.- Mealybugs: Mealybugs may also attack the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Habitat
The Pink Carpet is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and dry slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought and high temperatures. The Pink Carpet is widely cultivated in gardens and rockeries around the world due to its hardiness and attractive appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Pink Carpet a good ground cover?
A: Yes, the Pink Carpet is an excellent ground cover that forms a dense mat of pink flowers.
Q: How often should I water the Pink Carpet?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can the Pink Carpet tolerate high temperatures?
A: Yes, the Pink Carpet can tolerate high temperatures and drought.
Q: Does the Pink Carpet require frequent fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
– Delosperma ‘Jewel of Desert Moonstone’- Delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’- Delosperma ‘Wheels of Wonder’- Delosperma ‘Ice Cream’- Delosperma ‘Starburst’
References
– https://www.gardenia.net/plant/delosperma-esterhuyseniae-pink-carpet- https://worldofsucculents.com/delosperma-esterhuyseniae-pink-carpet/- https://www.mountaincrestgardens.com/delosperma-esterhuyseniae-pink-carpet/- https://www.succulentsnetwork.com/delosperma-esterhuyseniae-pink-carpet/
