Ice plant (Carpobrotus deliciosus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Ice plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Aizoaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 14 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Ice plant
Carpobrotus deliciosus, commonly known as Gaukum, is a creeping succulent plant native to South Africa, characterized by its fleshy leaves and vibrant flowers ranging from white to pink or purple. It forms dense mats that effectively cover the ground, making it ideal for rock gardens, embankments, or as groundcover in coastal areas. Its edible fruits give it its common name and added appeal.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It requires full sun for abundant flowering and compact growth; partial shade can reduce blooming. Watering should be sparse, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very drought-tolerant. It prefers well-drained soils, even poor or sandy ones, and a common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Ice plant
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, and flaccid leaves (lack of water); black spots or rot at the base (excess water).
- First aid
- If soft, water thoroughly. If rotted, remove affected parts and repot in dry substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its biggest enemy, causing root rot. Also, complete lack of light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's very resilient. Act quickly if you see severe rot or dehydration.