Delosperma: The Colorful Succulent Groundcover That’s Taking Gardens by Storm
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that delivers big on color and thrives in challenging conditions, delosperma might just be your new garden hero. This cheerful succulent groundcover has been winning over gardeners with its vibrant daisy-like flowers and impressive drought tolerance.
What is Delosperma?
Delosperma is a perennial succulent that belongs to the ice plant family. Originally from South Africa, this hardy little plant has made itself at home in gardens across the United States, particularly in California where it grows and reproduces on its own. As a non-native species that has naturalized, it’s established itself as a reliable garden performer without becoming problematic.
This forb herb grows low to the ground without developing woody stems, making it perfect for carpeting areas where you want continuous color without the fuss of high-maintenance plants.
Where Does Delosperma Grow?
In the United States, delosperma has established populations primarily in California, where the Mediterranean-like climate suits its preferences perfectly. However, it’s cultivated in gardens across many states within USDA hardiness zones 6-10.
Why Gardeners Love Delosperma
There’s a lot to appreciate about this colorful groundcover:
- Stunning flowers: Bright, daisy-like blooms in purple, pink, yellow, orange, and white create eye-catching displays
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal watering
- Low maintenance: Perfect for busy gardeners who want maximum impact with minimal effort
- Pollinator friendly: Bees and butterflies love the nectar-rich flowers
- Versatile use: Works beautifully in rock gardens, on slopes, and as border edging
Perfect Garden Settings for Delosperma
Delosperma shines in several garden styles:
- Rock gardens: Its low-growing habit and colorful flowers complement stones beautifully
- Xeriscaping: Ideal for water-wise landscaping
- Mediterranean gardens: Fits perfectly with the sunny, dry aesthetic
- Coastal gardens: Tolerates salt spray and sandy soils
- Slope stabilization: Helps prevent erosion while adding color
Growing Conditions and Care
The beauty of delosperma lies in its simplicity. Here’s what it needs to thrive:
Sunlight: Full sun is essential for the best flowering and compact growth.
Soil: Well-draining soil is absolutely crucial. This plant will rot in waterlogged conditions, so sandy or gravelly soils work best.
Water: Drought tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.
Temperature: Hardy in zones 6-10, though some varieties may need protection in the coldest areas.
Planting and Care Tips
Getting delosperma established is straightforward:
- Plant in spring after the last frost date
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart for good coverage
- Amend heavy clay soils with sand or gravel for better drainage
- Water regularly the first year, then reduce to occasional deep watering
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While delosperma isn’t native, it does provide some benefits to local wildlife. The nectar-rich flowers attract bees and butterflies, especially during its long blooming period from late spring through fall. However, it doesn’t offer the comprehensive ecosystem support that native plants provide.
Native Alternatives to Consider
While delosperma can be a great garden addition, consider these native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems:
- Phlox subulata (Moss Phlox) – Low-growing with colorful spring flowers
- Sedum species (Stonecrops) – Native sedums offer similar drought tolerance
- Antennaria species (Pussytoes) – Silver-leaved groundcover with small flowers
- Regional wildflower mixes – Check with local native plant societies for area-specific recommendations
The Bottom Line
Delosperma offers an attractive, low-maintenance option for gardeners dealing with dry, sunny conditions. While it’s not native to North America, it’s not considered invasive either, making it a reasonable choice for specific garden situations. Its vibrant colors, drought tolerance, and ease of care make it particularly appealing for rock gardens and xeriscaping projects.
Just remember that incorporating native plants alongside non-natives creates the most beneficial and resilient garden ecosystem. Consider using delosperma as an accent plant while building the backbone of your garden with native species that truly support local wildlife and pollinators.
