Delosperma Fire Spinner (Ice Plant)

Indispensable element of waterwise landscapes, Delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’ (Ice Plant) is a vigorous, spreading perennial creating a stunning carpet of attractive succulent foliage, covered in late spring to early summer with a profusion of brightly colored flowers, 1.5 in. across (4 cm), which keep reappearing all summer until fall. 

Indispensable element of waterwise landscapes, Delosperma 'Fire Spinner' (Ice Plant) is a vigorous, spreading perennial creating a stunning carpet of attractive succulent foliage, covered in late spring to early summer with a profusion of brightly colored flowers, 1.5 in. across (4 cm), which keep reappearing all summer until fall. Evergreen in warm winter areas, the striking foliage of fleshy, medium green leaves, delicately covered with transparent flakes resembling small pieces of ice (hence the common name), adds winter interest to the landscape. The intensity of the flower color, an incredible mix of brilliant orange and magenta petals with a central white eye, combined with the long blooming season and evergreen foliage reinforce the ornamental interest of this perennial plant.

  • Grows up to 2-3 in. tall (5-7 cm) and spreads vigorously to 12-18 in. (30-45 cm) or more.
  • Thrives in full sun in dry, well-drained soils. Good drainage is essential to survival. Tolerates average to lean soils including sandy and gravelly ones. If conditions are too wet, it will suffer and grow poorly. Water sparsely during the growing season. Good heat and drought tolerance.
  • Deer resistant but attractive to butterflies.
  • Easy to grow, Delosperma is a good choice for areas of the garden that are sunny and dry. Excellent addition to border fronts, rock gardens, coastal gardens, banks and slopes or naturalized areas. Delosperma makes a lovely ground cover or edger and is perfect for containers.
  • No serious insect or disease issues. May be occasionally affected by aphids and mealybugs.
  • Native to South Africa.

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 10

Heat Zones 1
– 9

Climate Zones 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Cactus – Succulents
Plant Family Delosperma – Ice Plants
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Height 2"
– 3"
(5cm
– 7cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 12″
– 18″
(30cm
– 45cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil
Attracts Butterflies
Garden Uses Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Edging, Ground Covers, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden, Prairie and Meadow