Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant (Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Garnet’)
Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant (Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Garnet’) is a striking, drought-tolerant perennial celebrated for its long-lasting, jewel-toned blooms. Its radiant red flowers with bright yellow centers bloom continuously from spring through fall, adding vivid color to rock gardens, borders, and xeriscapes. This low-growing succulent forms a dense, spreading mat of evergreen foliage that provides year-round interest while helping to prevent soil erosion and suppress weeds. Adapted to dry conditions, it thrives in well-draining soils and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Distinctive Features
Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant produces a profusion of daisy-like flowers with deep red petals surrounding a golden-yellow center. Its succulent, bright green foliage remains evergreen in warmer climates, turning slightly bronze in cooler temperatures. Bred for extended bloom time, this variety stands out for its exceptionally long flowering season compared to other ice plants.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun for maximum bloom production.
- Soil: Thrives in well-draining, sandy, or gravelly soils; does not tolerate heavy clay.
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established; requires minimal watering.
- Humidity: Prefers dry to moderate humidity levels.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9, making it suitable for arid and temperate climates.
Ideal Uses
- Ground Cover: Spreads to form a dense mat that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.
- Rock Gardens: Thrives in dry, well-draining conditions.
- Xeriscapes: Perfect for water-efficient landscapes.
- Slopes & Erosion Control: Stabilizes soil while adding color.
- Pollinator Gardens: A valuable nectar source for bees and butterflies.
Low Maintenance Care
Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant is an easy-care perennial that thrives in tough conditions.
- Watering: Water sparingly once established; avoid overwatering.
- Pruning: Trim back spent blooms or lightly shear in late summer to encourage fresh growth.
- Fertilizing: Requires little to no fertilization; a light feeding in spring may promote stronger growth.
- Pest and Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to pests and diseases.
- Winter Care: Protect roots with mulch in colder zones; foliage may turn bronze but will regrow in spring.
Why Choose Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant?
Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant is a resilient, long-blooming perennial that brings vibrant color and texture to any landscape.
- Brilliant Red Blooms with Yellow Centers: A striking, jewel-toned floral display.
- Extended Bloom Time: Flowers continuously from spring through fall.
- Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry, poor soils with minimal water.
- Attracts Pollinators: A valuable nectar source for bees and butterflies.
- Cold Hardy & Evergreen: Maintains attractive foliage year-round in mild climates.
For a bold, low-maintenance ground cover that delivers lasting color and thrives in dry conditions, Jewel of the Desert Garnet Ice Plant (Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Garnet’) is an exceptional choice.