Contents
Description
Delosperma Grantiae is a low-growing, succulent perennial plant that is native to South Africa. It is also known as the ‘Ice Plant’ due to its glistening, ice-like appearance. It is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and ground cover due to its bright and long-lasting flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Delosperma |
Appearance
Delosperma Grantiae has succulent, fleshy, blue-green leaves that are arranged in a rosette formation. The leaves are around 2-3 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The flowers are daisy-like and have a diameter of around 2.5 cm. They are a bright pink-purple color and have a yellow center. The flowers bloom in the summer and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Delosperma Grantiae is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil. A sandy or gravelly soil is ideal.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but the flowers may be less vibrant.
- Hardiness Zones: Delosperma Grantiae is hardy to USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delosperma Grantiae is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be prone to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings. Additionally, watch out for slugs and snails, which may eat the leaves.
Habitat
Delosperma Grantiae is native to South Africa and is found in rocky areas and on slopes. It thrives in dry, arid environments and is well-suited to hot, sunny conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Delosperma Grantiae grow in containers?
A: Yes, Delosperma Grantiae can do well in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has adequate drainage holes.
Q: How often should I fertilize Delosperma Grantiae?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Delosperma Grantiae?
A: Delosperma Grantiae can be propagated by division or by stem cuttings.
Q: Can Delosperma Grantiae tolerate frost?
A: No, Delosperma Grantiae is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost.
Related Plants
- Delosperma Cooperi
- Delosperma Echinatum
- Delosperma Nubigenum
References
- “Delosperma Grantiae.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f246.
- “Delosperma Grantiae.” PlantZAfrica, 2010, http://pza.sanbi.org/delosperma-granti.
- “Delosperma Grantiae.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/171510/i-delosperma-granti-i/details.
