How to Grow Ice Plant
Mesembryanthemum crystallinum
Ice Plant is a frost-tender succulent annual from South Africa, prized for its glistening crystal-covered leaves and small white or pink daisy-like flowers. Sow indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date and transplant once all risk of frost has passed. It thrives in full sun and poor, well-drained or sandy soil — rich soil and overwatering are its enemies. The low trailing habit makes it an excellent drought-tolerant ground cover or container plant. Young leaves are edible with a pleasantly salty flavour and can be used in salads.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 12°C and soil has warmed to at least 15°C.
Don't know your frost date? Find it here →
Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Little to no feeding needed. A light balanced feed at planting is sufficient; excess nitrogen promotes foliage over flowers.
- Thrives on neglect in poor, dry, sandy soils. The glistening bladder cells on leaves and stems are not water droplets but specialised cells that reflect light and help the plant tolerate salt stress.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 15°C+
Pet Safety
Enter your last frost date to see your dates
- Sow indoors
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- Transplant out
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- First harvest
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 40 cm |
| Mature height | 15 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 15°C |
| Base growth temperature | 12°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Ice Plant?
- Plant Ice Plant 30cm apart with 40cm between rows.
- When does Ice Plant flower?
- Ice Plant typically flowers approximately 60 days after transplanting.
- Is Ice Plant frost hardy?
- Ice Plant is classified as Tender.
