{"title":"Ice Plants (Delosperma)","description":"\u003cp\u003eIce plants are Delosperma, low succulent groundcovers from southern Africa that cover themselves in glistening, daisy like flowers from spring to autumn. The flowers open in sunshine and close on dull days and at night. The plants form a dense mat only a few centimetres high, cope with drought and frost, and ask for little more than sun and drainage. Use them on banks, rockeries, wall tops and verge gardens, and choose by flower colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to choose an ice plant\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe species, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi\"\u003eIce Plant Delosperma cooperi\u003c\/a\u003e, is the familiar hardy ice plant with bright magenta purple flowers. It grows about 10 to 15 centimetres high and spreads to 60 centimetres or so. The Suntropics selections offer other colours on the same low, spreading habit: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/ice-plant-delosperma-suntropics-hot-pink\"\u003eIce Plant Suntropics Hot Pink\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/suntropics-red-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-red\"\u003eSuntropics Red Ice Plant\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/suntropics-yellow-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-yellow\"\u003eSuntropics Yellow Ice Plant\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/suntropics-purple-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-purple\"\u003eSuntropics Purple Ice Plant\u003c\/a\u003e are each named for their flower colour. Planting two or three colours together gives a brighter result than one alone, and they knit into a single carpet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIce plants are relatives of pigface, with the same fleshy leaves and shining petals, but they are finer in leaf, lower and neater. If you need something larger and faster for a broad sandy bank, look at our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/pigface\"\u003epigface\u003c\/a\u003e as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere ice plants grow\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFull sun is essential, because the flowers stay shut in shade. Ice plants suit warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and arid climates, and they handle frost well when the soil is dry. They also grow in the subtropics in a raised, open position, though long periods of summer rain and humidity can rot the centre of the mat. They are not suited to the wet tropics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThey tolerate coastal exposure, poor soil and reflected heat from paving and walls. That makes them useful on a hot verge, along the top of a retaining wall where they can trail over the edge, in gravel gardens and between rocks. You will find companions for them among our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003erockery plants\u003c\/a\u003e and other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/drought-tolerant-plants\"\u003edrought tolerant plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting and spacing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlant in spring or autumn. Sharp drainage is the one firm requirement: sandy or gravelly soil is ideal, and in clay you should build the bed up and mix in coarse sand or fine gravel. Space plants 30 to 40 centimetres apart for a continuous cover within a season or two. In pots and bowls use a cactus and succulent mix. Mulch with gravel in preference to bark, which holds moisture against the stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCare basics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWater regularly for the first few weeks, then only in long dry spells. Established plants are drought hardy, and too much water does more harm than too little. Keep them fairly dry through winter in cold districts, as cold combined with wet soil is what kills them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFeeding is rarely needed. A light dose of a low phosphorus slow release fertiliser in early spring is plenty, and rich soil produces leaves at the expense of flowers. Trim lightly after the main flush to tidy spent flowers and keep the mat dense. If the middle of an old plant thins out, cut it back in spring or replace it with rooted pieces from the edge. Stems root where they touch the soil, so new plants are easy to lift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy are my ice plant flowers closed?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers open only in bright sun. They close in the evening, on overcast days and in shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAre ice plants the same as pigface?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. They are related and look similar, but Delosperma is a smaller, finer plant than pigface (Carpobrotus), with smaller leaves and a lower mat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo ice plants tolerate frost?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, provided the soil drains freely. Frost on dry ground does little damage, while frost on waterlogged ground can kill them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I walk on ice plants?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. The fleshy stems crush easily, so plant them where they will not be trodden on.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi","title":"Ice Plant - Delosperma cooperi","description":"\u003cp\u003eIce Plant (\u003cem\u003eDelosperma cooperi\u003c\/em\u003e) is the groundcover for the strip of garden nothing else will hold: hot, dry, sandy and sloping. It sits at about 15cm high and spreads to 60cm across, forming a low succulent mat that covers itself in bright purple pink daisy flowers through the warm months. It grows fast, needs almost no water once established, and is not toxic to cats or dogs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers most of the warm season.\u003c\/strong\u003e Purple pink blooms open with the sun and keep coming from spring through summer.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt thrives on neglect.\u003c\/strong\u003e Drought tolerant, heat tolerant, frost hardy and happy in poor soil. Overwatering does more harm than leaving it alone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFast cover on a bank.\u003c\/strong\u003e One plant spreads to 60cm, so a slope closes over in a season or two and the mat holds soil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal ready.\u003c\/strong\u003e Salt tolerance means it works on exposed verges where lawn and most groundcovers burn.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSafe around pets.\u003c\/strong\u003e Not toxic to cats or dogs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroundcover and mass planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 40cm apart for quick cover on sunny banks. At that spacing the mats meet within one warm season and weeds lose their opening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRetaining walls and slopes.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant along the top edge of a wall at 40cm centres and let it trail over the face, or use it to stabilise a bank too steep to mow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries and coastal gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e It looks natural threaded between rocks and gravel, and it takes salt wind without protection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing ice plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun, without qualification. The flowers only open in strong light and the plant thins in shade. It suits warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and arid gardens and is frost hardy once established. Humid tropical and subtropical summers rot the mat from the centre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sharp drainage is the only real requirement, and poor ground suits it better than an improved bed. On clay, plant into a raised bed or a gravel mulched slope. Do not mulch with bark over the crown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water weekly for the first six to eight weeks only. After that an occasional deep soak in a long dry spell is plenty. Fertiliser is unnecessary and produces soft leggy growth with fewer flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Shear the mat back by about a third in early spring if it has opened up in the middle. Broken pieces root where they touch soil, so you can replant sections to fill gaps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIce plant is grown here as tube stock, so what arrives is a small rooted plant with a few succulent stems, usually under 10cm across. That is the right size for a groundcover project, because tubes establish quickly and you need a lot of them: roughly six plants per square metre at 40cm spacing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSucculents travel better than almost anything else. Some stems may snap in transit, which is harmless, and the pieces can be pushed into the soil to strike. Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Expect visible spread within four to six weeks in warm weather, and every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/best-trailing-plants-for-retaining-wall\"\u003eBest trailing plants for a retaining wall\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/groundcover\"\u003eBrowse groundcover plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/succulents\"\u003eShop the succulent range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-safe-for-pets\"\u003eCompare plants that are safe around pets\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many plants do I need per square metre?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbout six at 40cm spacing, which closes over in one warm season. Stretch to 50cm and you use four per square metre but wait twice as long for cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I walk on it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLight foot traffic is tolerated but it is not a lawn substitute. The stems crush easily and take weeks to recover. Use steppers rather than treating the mat as a path.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it become a weed?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt spreads steadily by trailing stems that root where they touch soil, so keep it clear of bed edges you want to hold. It pulls up easily by hand and does not seed aggressively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":51641259229503,"sku":"DEL-COO-tube","price":15.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":55100453683519,"sku":"DEL-COO-140MM-P10","price":203.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Ice-Plant-Delosperma-cooperi.png?v=1794662428"},{"product_id":"ice-plant-delosperma-suntropics-hot-pink","title":"Ice Plant - Delosperma ‘Suntropics Hot Pink’","description":"\u003cp\u003eIce Plant 'Suntropics Hot Pink' (\u003cem\u003eDelosperma\u003c\/em\u003e 'Suntropics Hot Pink') turns a hot, dry, awkward strip into a sheet of magenta flowers. It sits about 15cm high and spreads to roughly 60cm across, hugging gravel, rock and the top of a retaining wall. Frost hardy, drought tolerant, untroubled by poor soil and safe around cats and dogs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMonths of hot pink flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Daisy shaped blooms with a satin sheen open with the morning sun and close in the evening, repeating through the warm season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt genuinely survives drought.\u003c\/strong\u003e The fleshy leaves store their own water, so an established mat rides out weeks of dry weather without irrigation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrost hardy as well as heat tolerant.\u003c\/strong\u003e A rare combination in a succulent, and why this one works in cool temperate gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePet friendly.\u003c\/strong\u003e Not toxic to cats or dogs, which matters in a groundcover an animal walks over daily.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBees and butterflies find it.\u003c\/strong\u003e The open flower shape is easy for pollinators to work, and it flowers when little else does.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroundcover and slopes.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 30cm apart for a dense mat. At that spacing the plants knit together within a season, and the shallow roots help hold the surface of a bank.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries and gravel gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e It spills naturally between stones and over edges, and poor gritty soil suits it better than a rich bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRetaining walls, pots and edging.\u003c\/strong\u003e Set it along the top of a wall to trail over the face, or use it as a low path edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing ice plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun, six hours minimum, or the flowers stay shut and the growth stretches. It is at home in warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and arid or semi-arid gardens. In humid tropical and subtropical summers it is a poor bet in the ground, because wet heat rots the crowns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sharp drainage is the whole game. Sandy, gravelly and stony soils are ideal. On clay, plant into a raised bed opened up with coarse sand. Skip organic mulch and use gravel, so the stems stay dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water weekly for the first six to eight weeks, then only in extended dry spells. Overwatering kills far more of these than neglect. A light dose of slow release fertiliser in early spring is ample.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Shear the mat over lightly after the main flush to bring on fresh growth. Pull out any patch that goes soft after wet weather, and the surrounding plants will close the gap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one is sold as tube stock, which is how succulent groundcovers are best bought. Each plant is small, a rooted cutting a few centimetres across, and it looks modest in the hand. That is normal. Tube stock establishes faster than a larger pot here, because the roots have not been sitting in wet mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fleshy leaves hold their own moisture, so plants travel well. Plant within a few days, water once, then leave them be, and expect the mat to close within one growing season at 30cm spacing. Delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95, under our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse the wider \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/groundcover\"\u003egroundcover range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare it with our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/succulents\"\u003esucculents\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSee companions in the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003erockery collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRead about \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/best-trailing-plants-for-retaining-wall\"\u003etrailing plants for a retaining wall\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow many plants do I need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 30cm spacing you need roughly eleven plants per square metre for cover within a season. Stretch to 40cm and you halve the cost, but wait an extra season for the gaps to close.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow it in a humid subtropical or tropical garden?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot reliably in the ground, because long humid summers keep the crowns damp and cause rot. Use a well drained pot of gritty mix in full sun, kept out of heavy rain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it safe around pets?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It is not toxic to cats or dogs, so it suits a lawn edge, a path border or any area a pet crosses regularly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":51641260835135,"sku":"DEL-SUN-HOT-tube","price":15.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Ice-Plant-Delosperma-Suntropics-Hot-Pink.jpg?v=1766223431"},{"product_id":"suntropics-red-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-red","title":"Suntropics Red Ice Plant - Delosperma cooperi 'Suntropics Red'","description":"\u003cp\u003eSuntropics Red Ice Plant (\u003cem\u003eDelosperma cooperi\u003c\/em\u003e 'Suntropics Red') is a low, spreading succulent groundcover that grows about 10cm tall and 40cm wide and covers itself in warm red daisy flowers with golden centres through summer. Its slender, fleshy leaves store water, so it keeps going in the dry, hot, exposed spots where lawn and most flowers give up. Unusually for a succulent, it is also cold hardy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour through the warm months.\u003c\/strong\u003e Small, shiny daisy flowers, warm red with a golden eye, peak in summer and keep appearing while the weather stays warm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStores its own water.\u003c\/strong\u003e The fleshy stems hold moisture, so it handles drought and heat once established.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCold hardy as well.\u003c\/strong\u003e It takes cold weather in its stride, which is rare among succulent groundcovers.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReddish winter foliage.\u003c\/strong\u003e The slender leaves take on a reddish tint in winter, so the carpet stays interesting between flowerings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlexible in the garden.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rockeries, pots, rooftop gardens and green walls all suit its low, trailing habit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroundcover and rockeries.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 30cm apart in full sun. Each plant spreads to about 40cm, so the trailing stems knit into a low carpet over rocks, gravel and dry banks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots, rooftops and living walls.\u003c\/strong\u003e The trailing habit spills over the edge of a pot or a wall pocket, and it copes with the heat of an exposed rooftop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal and dry gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e A good fit for coastal gardens, gravel gardens and outback style borders where soil is light and rain is irregular.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Suntropics Red Ice Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun, or sun for at least part of the day, gives the best colour and the most compact shape. It is drought tolerant and cold hardy once established, so it suits subtropical, warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and arid gardens. Where summers are wet and humid, give it the sharpest drainage you can, or grow it in a pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Light, free draining soil is essential. It does not like wet feet or moist, rich soil, so on heavy clay grow it in a raised bed or pot with coarse sand or gravel in the mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water lightly until the plant is established, usually around 12 weeks, then only when the soil is dry. Skip the fertiliser: rich feeding gives soft, leafy growth rather than flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Little is needed. In spring, trim any straggly or winter damaged stems back to keep the mat compact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Suntropics Red Ice Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Tubes are the economical way to cover a rockery or bank, and the plants spread outwards as the weather warms. The fleshy stems travel well, so plant out within a day or two of arrival in a sunny, well drained spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/groundcover\"\u003eBrowse more groundcover plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/succulents\"\u003eSucculents for sunny gardens and pots\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003ePlants for rockeries\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/the-world-of-succulents-a-must-have-guide-for-garden-lovers\"\u003eA complete succulent care guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 30cm apart for a carpet. Each plant spreads to about 40cm, so the stems meet and overlap as they grow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill frost damage it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuntropics Red is cold hardy, and the leaves simply turn reddish in winter. Wet soil in cold weather does far more harm than frost, so drainage matters more than shelter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy is mine not flowering well?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmost always too little sun. Flowering and the compact shape are best in a full sun position, so move a shaded plant, and keep the soil lean and free draining.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67787205771583,"sku":"DEL-COO-SUNTRO-tube","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/suntropics-red-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-red.jpg?v=1792152129"},{"product_id":"suntropics-yellow-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-yellow","title":"Suntropics Yellow Ice Plant - Delosperma cooperi 'Suntropics Yellow'","description":"\u003cp\u003eSuntropics Yellow Ice Plant (\u003cem\u003eDelosperma cooperi\u003c\/em\u003e 'Suntropics Yellow') is a low, trailing succulent that grows about 10cm tall and 40cm wide and blankets itself in clear, bright yellow daisy flowers through summer. The slender, fleshy leaves hold water, so it carries on through heat and dry spells that flatten thirstier plants. It is cold hardy too, which makes it one of the more adaptable succulent groundcovers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClean, bright yellow flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e Small, glossy daisies in a clear yellow with no darker eye cover the plant at its summer peak and keep returning through the warmer months.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater stored in the stems.\u003c\/strong\u003e The fleshy leaves and stems hold moisture, which is why it handles drought and heat once established.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardy in the cold.\u003c\/strong\u003e Few succulents shrug off cold the way this one does, so it is not limited to frost free gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA tidy carpet.\u003c\/strong\u003e The trailing stems spread outwards into a low mat, and the leaves colour reddish in winter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuits many spots.\u003c\/strong\u003e Rockeries, pots, rooftops, xeriscaped beds and green walls are all fair game.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries and gravel gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Set plants 30cm apart in full sun and let the stems trail over stone. A yellow carpet looks especially sharp against grey rock and dark mulch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroundcover on dry banks.\u003c\/strong\u003e On sunny slopes with light soil, 30cm spacing builds a continuous low mat that fills in as each plant spreads to about 40cm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots and rooftops.\u003c\/strong\u003e It spills neatly over the rim of a container and tolerates the hot, exposed conditions of rooftop and courtyard gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Suntropics Yellow Ice Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant in full sun, or at least a position with sun for part of the day, for the best flowering and the most compact growth. It is drought tolerant and cold hardy once established and suits subtropical, warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and arid gardens. In regions with humid, rainy summers, drainage is what decides whether it thrives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e It wants light, free draining soil and dislikes wet feet and rich, moist ground. In clay, build up a mound or raised bed and work in coarse sand or fine gravel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the soil lightly moist until the plant is established, usually around 12 weeks. After that, water only when the soil has dried out. Fertiliser is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e No regular pruning is required. After winter, snip back untidy stems to keep the mat dense.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Suntropics Yellow Ice Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Tubes are the value choice for covering a rockery or sunny bank. The stems are fleshy and travel well, so plant out within a day or two of arrival in a sunny, free draining position.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/groundcover\"\u003eGroundcover plants for sunny gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/succulents-for-hot-climates\"\u003eSucculents for hot climates\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003eRockery plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/the-world-of-succulents-a-must-have-guide-for-garden-lovers\"\u003eSucculents in Australia, a care guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow much space does it need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach plant spreads to about 40cm wide and only 10cm tall. Plant 30cm apart and the stems will meet to form a low, even carpet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan it handle cold winters?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Suntropics Yellow is cold hardy once established. Wet, cold soil is a bigger threat than frost, so keep drainage sharp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between the Yellow and the Red?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnly the flower colour. Yellow is a clear, bright yellow throughout, while Suntropics Red is warm red with a golden centre. Size, habit and care are the same, so they combine well in one planting.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67787205804351,"sku":"DEL-COO-SUNTRO-tube","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/suntropics-yellow-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-yellow.jpg?v=1792152138"},{"product_id":"suntropics-copper-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-copper","title":"Suntropics Copper Ice Plant - Delosperma cooperi 'Suntropics Copper'","description":"\u003cp\u003eSuntropics Copper Ice Plant (\u003cem\u003eDelosperma cooperi\u003c\/em\u003e 'Suntropics Copper') is a low, trailing South African succulent that forms a carpet about 10cm high and 40cm wide. Small shiny daisy flowers in deep orange with golden centres cover it in summer and keep appearing through the warmer months. It thrives where the soil is poor and the sun is fierce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour all summer.\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep orange daisies with golden centres peak in summer and keep coming, in smaller numbers, through the rest of the warm season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReddish winter foliage.\u003c\/strong\u003e The slender, fleshy leaves turn reddish in winter, so the carpet still looks good when out of flower.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrought and heat tolerant.\u003c\/strong\u003e The succulent stems hold moisture, so established plants shrug off dry, hot spells.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCold hardy.\u003c\/strong\u003e Despite its sunny look it copes with cold, which makes it useful well beyond the warm north.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLow and tidy.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 10cm high it covers ground without hiding or shading its neighbours.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries and gravel gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Spill it over rocks and into gravel, where drainage is sharp and the orange flowers glow against stone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroundcover and xeriscaping.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 30cm apart for a continuous carpet in the driest beds and banks. The spreading stems knit together without needing rich soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots, rooftops and green walls.\u003c\/strong\u003e Light, free draining potting mix suits it, and its low habit works on rooftop gardens and in planted living walls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal and outback gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Heat, dust and dry air are no trouble, so it earns its place in gardens where little else survives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Suntropics Copper Ice Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun gives the most colour and the most compact shape. It is cold hardy and heat tolerant, so it suits Mediterranean, arid, warm temperate and cool temperate gardens, and subtropical ones with excellent drainage. In very humid areas give it the sunniest, airiest spot you have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant into light, free draining soil. It does not like wet feet or moist, rich ground. In heavy soil, raise the bed or add coarse sand and grit, or grow it in a pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water lightly until the plant is established, usually around 12 weeks. After that water only when the soil is dry. It needs no rich feeding, which tends to produce soft, sprawling growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e None is needed. Snip off any dead or straggling stems in spring to keep the carpet neat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Suntropics Copper Ice Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly in a sunny, free draining spot. Expect a small plant at first, with stems that spread outward as the weather warms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as on backorder on this page, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/succulents-for-hot-climates\"\u003eSucculents for hot climates\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003ePlants for rockeries and gravel gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/groundcover\"\u003eMore groundcovers for dry gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/the-world-of-succulents-a-must-have-guide-for-garden-lovers\"\u003eSucculents in Australia: a complete care guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant 30cm apart for a continuous carpet. The stems spread to about 40cm, so the plants meet and fill in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it survive frost?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is cold hardy once established, so light frosts are not a worry. Sharp drainage matters more than shelter, because wet cold soil is what does the damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy do the leaves turn red in winter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat is normal. The slender fleshy leaves take on a reddish tone in cooler weather, and the green returns as the days warm.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790306312511,"sku":"DEL-COO-SUNTRO-tube","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/suntropics-copper-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-copper.jpg?v=1792198597"},{"product_id":"suntropics-purple-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-purple","title":"Suntropics Purple Ice Plant - Delosperma cooperi 'Suntropics Purple'","description":"\u003cp\u003eSuntropics Purple Ice Plant (\u003cem\u003eDelosperma cooperi\u003c\/em\u003e 'Suntropics Purple') is a low, trailing succulent that spreads into a carpet about 10cm high and 40cm wide. Its small, shiny daisy flowers are a bright, warm-toned purple with golden centres, peaking in summer and carrying on more lightly through the warmer months. Few groundcovers handle a hot, dry bed so cheerfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVivid purple daisies.\u003c\/strong\u003e Warm-toned purple petals around golden centres give a jewel-like colour that holds up in strong sun.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWaterwise by design.\u003c\/strong\u003e Slender, fleshy leaves and succulent stems store moisture, so established plants manage heat and dry spells.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCopes with cold too.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is cold hardy, which means it is not limited to the warm north.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWinter interest.\u003c\/strong\u003e The leaves turn reddish in winter, so the carpet still has colour between flowerings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA low profile.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 10cm high it covers ground without smothering anything planted beside it.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDry borders, banks and coastal gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 30cm apart so the trailing stems meet and cover the soil. It suits sunny slopes, dusty strips and seaside beds where thirstier plants fail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries and gravel gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Let it trail over stones and pavers, where sharp drainage keeps the roots happy and the purple pops against grey rock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePots, rooftops and living walls.\u003c\/strong\u003e It does well in shallow containers of light mix, on exposed rooftops and in planted walls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Suntropics Purple Ice Plant in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Give it full sun for the most flowers and a compact shape. It is heat tolerant and cold hardy, so it suits Mediterranean, arid, warm temperate and cool temperate gardens, and subtropical ones with excellent drainage. In humid districts, choose the sunniest, airiest position you have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant in light, free draining soil. It dislikes wet feet and moist, rich ground. On clay, raise the bed or work in coarse sand, or grow it in a pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water lightly until established, usually around 12 weeks, then only when the soil is dry. Skip the rich fertiliser, since it encourages soft, floppy growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e No regular pruning is needed. In spring, snip away any dead or straggling stems to keep the carpet tidy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Suntropics Purple Ice Plant as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly in a sunny, free draining position. Expect a small plant at first, and stems that run outward as the weather warms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur tube stock is supplied by our grower, so availability comes and goes. If the tube shows as on backorder when you visit, use the notify button on the page and we will email you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/succulents\"\u003eBrowse our succulent range\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/drought-tolerant-plants\"\u003eDrought tolerant plants for dry gardens\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-pots\"\u003ePlants that suit pots and containers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/the-world-of-succulents-a-must-have-guide-for-garden-lovers\"\u003eSucculents in Australia: a complete care guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes it need regular feeding?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It does best on lean soil, and rich feeding makes it soft and sprawling. A little care while it establishes is all it needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow it in a pot or a living wall?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Use a light, free draining mix and put it in the sunniest spot you have. Pots and walls dry out quickly, so water only once the mix has dried.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat happens in a wet summer?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWet weather is harder on ice plants than heat. Good drainage is the defence, so plant on a slope, a raised bed or a mound of gritty soil.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790306672959,"sku":"DEL-COO-SUNTRO-tube","price":14.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/suntropics-purple-ice-plant-delosperma-cooperi-suntropics-purple.jpg?v=1792198605"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/collections\/Ice-Plant-Delosperma-cooperi.jpg?v=1794696394","url":"https:\/\/nurserynearme.com.au\/collections\/ice-plants.oembed","provider":"Nursery Near Me","version":"1.0","type":"link"}