Drosanthemum floribundum (Ice Plant)

Indispensable element of waterwise landscapes, Drosanthemum floribundum (Ice Plant) is a vigorous, spreading, mat forming perennial creating a dazzling carpet of attractive succulent foliage, covered in late spring to early summer with a profusion of lilac purple flowers. The flowers usually open about midday and close in the evenings. On dull, cool days they remain closed. Evergreen, the striking foliage of small, fleshy, cylindrical, light green leaves forms a dense mat that blocks the growth of weeds and stabilizes soil on slopes or banks. Tough, this little plant is known to survive in very hot, dry climatic conditions and can easily colonize large, open spaces, if happy. Heat, drought and salt tolerant, this succulent perennial looks great in rock gardens or containers.

• Grows up to 6 in. tall (15 cm) and spreads vigorously to several feet. One single plant can cover an area as large as 2m².
• Thrives in full sun in dry, well-drained soils. Good drainage is essential to survival. Tolerates poor soils. Little to moderate water.
• Easy to grow, Drosanthemum floribundum is a good choice for erosion control on steep slopes. Excellent addition to sunny rock gardens, or naturalized areas. Drosanthemum floribundum makes a lovely ground cover.
• Native to South Africa.