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Description
Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum, also known as ice plant, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Aizoaceae. It is a native plant of South Africa and is widely cultivated in gardens all over the world. The plant is known for its unique, glistening appearance due to the presence of bladder cells on its leaves that refract light, giving it a crystalline effect.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Mesembryanthemum |
Appearance
Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is a low-growing, mat-forming plant that can grow up to 6 inches tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are fleshy and cylindrical, with a bluish-green color and a crystalline appearance due to the bladder cells on its surface. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that range in color from white to pink and bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil or overwatered. It is also important to protect the plant from frost and cold winds as it is not tolerant of extreme temperatures.
Habitat
Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is a native plant of South Africa and is commonly found in coastal regions, rocky slopes, and sand dunes. It is adapted to dry, arid conditions and is able to store water in its leaves and stems to survive periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum poisonous?
A: No, Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is not poisonous and is safe to grow around pets and children.
Q: How often should I fertilize Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum survive in cold temperatures?
A: No, Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum is not tolerant of extreme temperatures and should be protected from frost and cold winds.
Q: How do I propagate Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum?
A: Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum can be propagated by stem cuttings or by dividing the plant at the root.
Related Plants
- Mesembryanthemum Edulis
- Mesembryanthemum Cordifolium
- Mesembryanthemum Criniflorum
References
- “Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c530
- “Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/mesembryanthemum-crystallinum
