Delosperma sutherlandii, commonly known as the Hardy Ice Plant, is a low-growing succulent native to South Africa. As a member of the Aizoaceae family, it is a popular addition to rock gardens and ground covers, prized for its ability to thrive in hot and dry conditions.
This plant features fleshy green leaves adorned with tiny hairs that help it retain moisture. From late spring through summer, it produces vibrant yellow or orange flowers with numerous petals.
Delosperma sutherlandii prefers well-draining, low-fertility soil and requires minimal watering once established. While it can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, it thrives best with full sun exposure.
The Hardy Ice Plant is an excellent option for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance plant that adds color and texture to the landscape while being drought-tolerant. Additionally, its flowers attract pollinators such as bees, making it a valuable choice for those looking to support local wildlife populations.
Fire Sheepfig has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It is vulnerable to disease when humidity is high and tends to develop root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Fire Sheepfig is drought tolerant but requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be drastically reduced or stopped altogether while it is dormant. Fire Sheepfig is suitable for people with some growing experience, but it can be difficult to care for, especially during the dormant period. It is particularly appropriate for those who have time to attend to it during the winter months.
How to keep Delosperma Sutherlandii.
Light
Originating from dry areas, Fire Sheepfig performs best in full sun, since its native habitat has strong light and very little shade. It will also tolerate partial sun, providing some flexibility in how it grows.
Temperature
Although Fire Sheepfig can tolerate some heat, it mainly thrives and grows in cooler periods and becomes dormant during the summer. In very hot summer weather, provide shade to prevent scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be reduced or stopped during the hottest season to avoid root rot. Fire Sheepfig grows vigorously in winter and spring. As long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
Fire Sheepfig needs only light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter and summer when it is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pot & Repot
Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, brush off excess soil, and plant it at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering to let any root damage heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit spot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent, Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Delosperma
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 7-10
- Mature Height
- 5 cm to 10 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Fall
- Native Area
- South Africa
Other names.
