Trailing ice plant - Lampranthus spectabilis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Trailing ice plant

Trailing ice plant (Lampranthus spectabilis) is an ice plant species native to South Africa. Trailing ice plant is a popular ornamental species that attracts butterflies and is resistant to deer. This species grows best in full sunlight and well-drained soils. It is considered easy to grow and is often planted in rock gardens and succulent gardens.

Scientific classification

Species

Trailing ice plant (Lampranthus spectabilis)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Mid winter, Late winter

Bloom Time

25 cm

Plant Height

Green

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple, Red

Flower Color

Red

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Trailing ice plant

Distribution of Trailing ice plant

Distribution Map

Trailing ice plant, native to the southern region of Africa, has been introduced to other temperate regions globally. It has found footing and is cultivated in locales with similar climatic conditions to its region of origin. Though not extensive, its introduced range encompasses parts of East Asia and the South Pacific.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Xeriscape gardens, steep slopes, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

This attractive succulent with a trailing habit is ideal for use as an unusual and fairly spectacular ground cover in rock gardens, succulent gardens, dry border fronts, slopes, and coastal gardens. Also, it does excellent in containers where it spills over the edge, creating an attractive display. Trailing ice plant will look its best at its bloom time, enriching the fleshy green foliage cover with numerous daisy-like, brightly colored flowers.

Symbolism

Passion and elegance

Interesting Facts

There are many Lampranthus species, or "ice plants," but they all hail from Southern Africa. The home range of trailing ice plant is dry and warm, so it grows well in the same conditions as American desert plants like yucca and agave.

Name Story

Trailing ice plant: The trailing ice plant's scientific name, Lampranthus spectabilis, translates roughly to "remarkable shining flower" in Latin. Many different species of Lampranthus plants exist to "shine" in every color of the rainbow.

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Care Guide for Trailing ice plant

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Trailing ice plant thrives in arid conditions, conserving water with its fleshy leaves. It requires weekly watering to avoid root rot. Although drought-tolerant, outdoor growth in full sun may necessitate more frequent watering to counter increased evaporation in excessive heat.

Fertilize: Fertilizing trailing ice plant with succulents and cacti food boosts growth and flowering. Apply a dilute solution every 4-6 weeks during the growing season, using quarter-strength to avoid root damage. Seasonal adjustments align with trailing ice plant's dormancy, ensuring appropriate nutrient intake for overall health.

Pruning: To maintain shape, prune large succulent plants like trailing ice plant in spring and autumn by removing redundant and dense branches. For propagation, select stout stems with 5-6 leaves, cut, apply sulfur powder to the wound, and plant after healing. Moisten the cutting soil slightly with a watering can.

Propagation: Renowned for its vibrant flowers, trailing ice plant thrives in well-draining soil and propagates via cuttings. Use a healthy shoot, let it callous, and plant in a moist, sandy mix. Keep the soil slightly damp and ensure warm, bright conditions, avoiding direct sunlight for successful growth.

Repotting: Repot trailing ice plant every 2 years in spring using a slightly larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and resume watering once new growth appears, ensuring trailing ice plant thrives with vibrant flowers and lush foliage.

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