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Tufted Ice Plant

$10.00

Delosperma sphalmanthoides: The Cold-Hardy Miniature Gem

Meet the Delosperma sphalmanthoides, a diminutive and utterly unique succulent that packs an incredible punch of color and texture. Known as Tufted Ice Plant or Dwarf Sea Anemone, this species is a must-have for rock gardens, troughs, and miniature landscapes.

Striking Features in a Compact Form

  • Sea Anemone Foliage: This plant forms a dense, compact cushion of tiny, fleshy, finger-like leaves. The glaucous blue-green foliage has a unique texture and grows in tight tufts, resembling a tiny sea creature or a miniature conifer forest.

  • Explosive Spring Bloom: Despite its small stature (growing only 1–2 inches high), the plant becomes completely obscured in early to mid-spring by a profusion of dazzling, spidery, magenta-pink daisy-like flowers. The intense color contrasts beautifully with the cool-toned foliage.

  • Alpine & Cold Hardy: Native to the high-altitude mountains of South Africa, this Delosperma variety is exceptionally cold-hardy (down to USDA Zone 5 in dry conditions). It is a tough, reliable choice for northern gardeners looking for evergreen succulents.

All potted plants are local pickup only. Shipped plants will be bare root (no pot or soil).

Delosperma sphalmanthoides: The Cold-Hardy Miniature Gem

Meet the Delosperma sphalmanthoides, a diminutive and utterly unique succulent that packs an incredible punch of color and texture. Known as Tufted Ice Plant or Dwarf Sea Anemone, this species is a must-have for rock gardens, troughs, and miniature landscapes.

Striking Features in a Compact Form

  • Sea Anemone Foliage: This plant forms a dense, compact cushion of tiny, fleshy, finger-like leaves. The glaucous blue-green foliage has a unique texture and grows in tight tufts, resembling a tiny sea creature or a miniature conifer forest.

  • Explosive Spring Bloom: Despite its small stature (growing only 1–2 inches high), the plant becomes completely obscured in early to mid-spring by a profusion of dazzling, spidery, magenta-pink daisy-like flowers. The intense color contrasts beautifully with the cool-toned foliage.

  • Alpine & Cold Hardy: Native to the high-altitude mountains of South Africa, this Delosperma variety is exceptionally cold-hardy (down to USDA Zone 5 in dry conditions). It is a tough, reliable choice for northern gardeners looking for evergreen succulents.

All potted plants are local pickup only. Shipped plants will be bare root (no pot or soil).

Delosperma sphalmanthoides

Care Recommendations

  • Light: Thrives in full sun where its flowers will open fully and its compact shape will be maintained.

  • Water: Unlike many succulents, this alpine species appreciates more moisture, especially during its growing season. Water regularly (but sparingly) in spring and early summer, ensuring the soil is well-draining. It prefers to be kept drier in winter.

  • Soil: Absolutely requires sharp drainage. Plant in a gritty, sandy, or gravelly soil mix in raised beds, rock crevices, or containers.

Ideal for adding vibrant, long-lasting color to dry slopes, miniature gardens, and any area demanding a unique, low-growing, and winter-tolerant ground cover.


At-Home Care

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You'll receive plant care reminders, plant health tips, and help from a community of other customers that will ensure you become a pro plant parent in no time.