Description
These plants are famous for their almost neon, multi-colored blooms that only open when the sun is shining. If you want a plant that can handle a rocky limestone wall or a scorching balcony with zero complaints, this is it.
💧 Watering
Extremely low-maintenance. As a succulent, it stores water in its fleshy, “icy” looking leaves. Water only when the soil is bone dry. Overwatering is one of the few ways to harm this plant, especially in the winter. It is perfectly adapted to the dry stretches of the Maltese climate.
☀️ Light
It is a total sun addict. Mesembryanthemums need full, direct sun to thrive. In fact, if the sky is cloudy or if the plant is in the shade, the flowers will physically close up and “sleep.” For the best display, place it in the brightest, hottest spot you have.
🍃 Foliage / Growth
Features low-growing, spreading mats of succulent leaves that often look like they are covered in tiny ice crystals (hence the name “Ice Plant”). It is a fantastic groundcover or “spiller” for the edge of a pot. In Malta, they are often seen cascading over rubble walls (ħitan tas-sejjieħ), creating a literal blanket of color.
🪴 Potting Mix
They are not picky at all, but they must have excellent drainage. A sandy, gritty soil is best. They actually thrive in “poor” soil, so there is no need for rich compost. If planting in a pot, mix standard soil with plenty of sand or fine gravel.
🌿 Fertilizer
Very little is needed. A single application of a balanced, weak fertilizer in early spring is enough to kickstart the blooming season. Too much food will result in lots of green leaves but very few of those iconic daisy-like flowers.
🐕🐈 Pet Safety
Generally considered non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for ground-level flower beds or low pots where dogs or cats might wander.
🌬️ Air Purifying
While they don’t have the massive leaf surface area of a Ficus, they are excellent “pioneer plants” that help prevent soil erosion and provide vital nectar for bees and butterflies during the hot Maltese spring.
*Pictures shown may vary from actual product due to the live nature of the items. Some items may be out of stock for various reasons, we will issue a refund or offer alternatives should that be the case.
The Price is per one individual plant.
