Plant Type

Ground cover, Perennial, Succulent

 

Height Range

Under 1'

 

Flower Color

Purple

 

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

 

Leaf Color

Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

Low

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Rocky

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

Attracts Bees

Design Styles

English Cottage, Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Tropical

 

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

 

Location Uses

Perennial Border, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks

 

Special Uses

Cascade, Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Small Spaces

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

This is another fine South African introduction valued for its shimmering fuchsia purple daisies that keep coming all summer. A vigorous spreader, it forms a dense mat of succulent, linear green, succulent leaves. Succulent fleshy green foliage is sometimes tinged with purple in winter. Foliage is covered with transparent flakes that somewhat resemble tiny pieces of ice, hence the common name. Plants are evergreen in warm winter climates, but at best are usually only semi-evergreen here. Grows 3 inches tall and 18 inches wide.

Grow in well-drained, average to dry garden soil in full sun. Good drainage is essential for the plant, particularly in over-wintering. Stop watering in midfall to harden for winter. This plant has become a staple in xeric gardens. Good heat and drought tolerances. Some sources list it as being winter hardy to USDA Zone 5. Gravel mulches are a good choice for this perennial as it helps keep it warmer in the winter, and doesn't hold moisture at the crown.