Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum): A Colorful Ground Cover for Sunny Gardens
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that produces a carpet of vibrant, daisy-like flowers, iceplant might just catch your eye. This succulent ground cover has been winning over gardeners with its cheerful blooms and drought-tolerant nature, though it’s worth knowing a bit about its background before you dig in.
What is Iceplant?
Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum) is a non-native succulent that originally hails from South Africa but has made itself quite at home in certain parts of the United States. As a forb – basically a non-woody plant that stays close to the ground – it can behave as either an annual or perennial depending on your climate and growing conditions.
The name iceplant comes from the glistening, almost crystalline appearance of its fleshy leaves, which can look like they’re covered in tiny ice crystals when the light hits them just right. Pretty neat, right?
Where Does Iceplant Grow?
You’ll find iceplant growing wild in Arizona, California, Oregon, and Pennsylvania, where it has established itself after being introduced from its native South Africa. It thrives particularly well in coastal areas and Mediterranean-like climates.
The Visual Appeal
Iceplant is definitely a showstopper when it comes to color. Its daisy-like flowers come in an impressive range of hues – think bright pinks, purples, yellows, whites, and oranges. The blooms typically open in the morning sun and close in the evening or on cloudy days, creating a dynamic display that changes throughout the day.
The succulent foliage is equally attractive, with thick, fleshy leaves that range from green to reddish tones, often with that signature crystalline sparkle that gives the plant its common name.
Garden Uses and Design Role
Iceplant excels as a ground cover, spreading to create colorful carpets that work beautifully in:
- Rock gardens and xeriscapes
- Coastal landscapes
- Mediterranean-style gardens
- Container plantings
- Slopes and areas prone to erosion
It’s particularly valuable in challenging spots where other plants might struggle – think sandy, poor soil or areas with salt exposure.
Growing Conditions and Care
One of iceplant’s biggest selling points is how easy it is to grow. Here’s what it needs to thrive:
Sunlight: Full sun is essential for the best flowering and growth
Soil: Well-draining soil is absolutely crucial. Sandy or rocky soil works perfectly, while heavy clay can spell disaster
Water: Once established, iceplant is remarkably drought-tolerant. In fact, overwatering is more likely to cause problems than underwatering
Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In colder areas, treat it as an annual or grow in containers that can be brought indoors
Planting and Care Tips
Getting started with iceplant is refreshingly straightforward:
- Plant after the last frost in spring
- Space plants about 12-18 inches apart for ground cover
- Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- In colder zones, mulch around plants or grow as annuals
- Watch for root rot in poorly drained soils
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
The bright flowers do attract bees and other pollinators, which is always a plus for garden ecosystems. However, the wildlife benefits are generally limited compared to native plant options.
A Word About Native Alternatives
While iceplant can be a lovely addition to the right garden, it’s worth considering native alternatives that provide similar benefits while supporting local ecosystems more effectively. Depending on your region, native sedums, native groundcover asters, or regional wildflowers might offer comparable visual appeal with greater ecological value.
Some excellent native alternatives to consider include native stonecrops (Sedum species), wild bergamot, or region-specific wildflower mixes that can provide similar ground cover benefits while supporting local wildlife.
The Bottom Line
Iceplant can be a valuable addition to the right garden – particularly if you’re dealing with challenging growing conditions like poor soil, drought, or coastal exposure. Its stunning flowers and easy-care nature make it appealing for gardeners seeking low-maintenance color. Just remember to consider native alternatives that might serve your garden and local ecosystem even better, and always plant responsibly by choosing appropriate locations and preventing unwanted spread.
