Rosea Ice Plant

Scientific Name: Drosanthemum hispidum (Linn.) Schwantes
Synonym: Mesembryanthemum hispidum
Family: Aizoaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
Sunset®: 2-12,14-24
USDA: 9-11

Frost Tolerance: Very hardy in Phoenix

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: South Africa (Great Namaqualand: Malmesbury, Montagu), Namibia

Growth Habits: Succulent mound forming perennial, 2 feet tall (60 cm), 3 feet wide (90 cm), leaves up to 1 inch long (2.5 cm)

Watering Needs: Regular water in summer, keep rather dry in winter, does better with good drainage, salt resistant

Propagation: Stem cuttings, seeds

These leaves and the stems are covered with papillae looking like dew drops or glassy beads, glittering in the sun, hence the common name. Flowers are profuse and a rich purple or lavender. Blooming in summer, this plant forms a dazzling mound of color for the well-drained garden.

Blooming Habits:
The Drosanthemum hispidum has large quantities of 1 to 2 inches wide (3-5 cm), purple or lavender flowers in late spring.