Ice plant (Carpobrotus acinaciformis)
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 acinaciformis, commonly known as Sally-my-handsome, is a perennial trailing succulent native to South Africa. It's characterized by its fleshy, triangular leaves and large, intense magenta flowers that open on sunny days, creating a vibrant display. It's ideal for covering large areas, stabilizing slopes, or adorning rockeries and coastal gardens due to its hardiness.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun for abundant flowering and compact growth; partial shade may reduce its bloom. It is extremely drought-tolerant, requiring very infrequent watering once established, especially in arid climates. It needs very well-drained, sandy or stony soil, as waterlogging is its main enemy. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and plant death.
How to save a dying Ice plant
- Warning signs
- Soft, wrinkled, yellowing leaves; dry or blackened stems. Soft or rotting roots.
- First aid
- Remove damaged parts. Replant in dry, well-draining soil. Drastically reduce watering. Provide intense sunlight.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage. Does not tolerate waterlogging; roots rot easily.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots are not completely rotted and healthy stems remain. Act quickly.