Corpuscularia lehmannii - Ice Plant Description
Corpuscularia lehmannii, commonly known as the Ice Plant, is a remarkable succulent native to the dry karroid slopes of South Africa, specifically between Uitenhage to Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape province. Not to be mistaken by its frosty moniker, this plant cherishes the warmth and exhibits an intriguing blend of botanical wonders and easy-care features that make it a delightful choice for garden enthusiasts, novices and veterans alike.
Appearance and Growth
Aesthetically pleasing, this densely leafy succulent boasts long ascending stems with numerous short branches, all of which carry grey-green leaves arranged in opposing pairs. The leaves are notably fleshy, thick, and trigonous, giving the Ice Plant its distinctive and compact appearance. Growing to heights of up to 20 cm and spreading as wide as 30 cm, Corpuscularia lehmannii displays a speedy growth rate, ensuring a lush green presence in a relatively short time.
Floral Display
Springtime sees the Ice Plant bursting into a radiant display of yellow or sometimes orange many-petaled blooms, which can span up to 4 cm in diameter. These flowers, reminiscent of daisies, are not only visually captivating but also accentuate the grey-green backdrop of its leaves.
Care and Cultivation
The Ice Plant's care requirements cater to both the diligent and the forgetful gardener. For watering, the "soak and dry" method is most effective; allowing the soil to dry out entirely between watering sessions helps prevent root rot. A visual hint for when it's thirsting for water? Its leaves will start to wrinkle. A sandy, gritty soil mix is preferable, ensuring that the roots get ample drainage.
Sunlight
Light is essential for the Ice Plant. While it flourishes in direct sunlight, it's flexible enough to tolerate partial shade. However, a gradual transition from shade to sunlight is recommended to prevent potential sunburn.
Cold Hardiness
Although it originates from a warm climate, the Ice Plant is not cold-hardy. For Australian gardeners, this means that it should be shielded or moved indoors in regions where temperatures drop significantly, especially during the colder seasons.
Propagation and Placement
Propagation of the Ice Plant is hassle-free. Whether you choose to grow it from cuttings or seeds, the former often proves to be the more straightforward method. Thanks to its aesthetic appeal and manageable size, Corpuscularia lehmannii fits well in container gardens, rockeries, or hanging baskets.
In summary, Corpuscularia lehmannii, with its distinctive appearance, vibrant flowers, and low-maintenance care, is a delightful addition to any garden or indoor plant collection. Its blend of botanical beauty and easy-going nature makes it a prized possession for any plant enthusiast.
Corpuscularia lehmannii - Ice Plant, plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
We also offer the variegated form of this plant. To check it out, click the following link: Corpuscularia lehmannii Variegata - Variegated Ice Plant
First time customers... Please read our Shipping Guide, in top or bottom menu, before placing your order.
Please Note:
- All plants are sent bare rooted with no pots and soil, or minimum soil only.
- Due to the drying process necessary for sending plants through the mail, plants may look slightly different than images shown on our website
- Some plants, may look wrinkled when they arrive, may be somewhat limp, or soft to the touch. This is normal as they have been dried out for for a number of days before shipping to avoid rotting in the mail.
- Succulents are very hardy plants and they will recover quickly, providing you unpack them as soon as you receive them follow some simple care instructions you will find with your order.
If you have any questions or concerns at all, please message us via our Facebook page at John & Norma's Succulents for the fastest Response.