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Lampranthus deltoides
Oscularia deltoides, Ice Plant
| Their dazzling flowers outshine even those of other Ice Plants in the Azioaceae family. White, yellow, orange, pink, red or magenta, they bloom over long periods in summer, attracting bees. Shrubby or creeping succulent stems with angular, curved leaves make terrific ground covers or container plants for dry temperate regions, especially along the coast. In warm, sheltered locations a few survive light frost. The Tresco cultivars of Lampranthus spectabilis include Apricot, Brilliant (magenta) and Red. Buy plants in bloom for the color you want. For lively contrast try Lampranthus bicolor, with yellow inner petals cupped in deep red. Give full sun and low-fertility, well-drained soil. Plant after the last frost, 1 to 1½ feet apart for ground cover. Need little or no water in summer, but appreciate a soaking when thoroughly dry. Shear lightly after flowering to remove fruit capsules and spur new leafy growth. In frost-prone areas, dig up and pot, or move container plants to winter in a greenhouse. Can root cuttings year round, but ideally from outdoor plants in late summer or early autumn, and from greenhouse-wintered plants in early spring. Cut 2- to 4-inch-long shoots with 3 or 4 pairs of leaves just below a node, dry 1 or 2 days before rooting. Keep moist at 60º to 68º F; should root in 2 to 3 weeks. Subject to root rot or fungus -- but only if overwatered or too shaded -- and to mealybugs. |
Chunky, triangular blue-green leaves edged with small reddish teeth form a nubbly mat. Pale lilac-rose flowers are sometimes fragrant.
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Attributes - Lampranthus deltoides
Plant Type: Succulent
Bloom Season: Early Summer through Late Summer
Flower Color: Pink, Red
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 3 in. to 6 in.
Width: 1 ft. 8 in.
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Climate: Zones 9, 10, 11
Notes: Thrives in Dry Climates, Hot Climates. Container Plants, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers.
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