Aizoaceae
Red ice plant: Ground Cover Plant
Malephora crocea
Requires very little maintenance; it thrives in full sun and well-draining soil with minimal watering.
Every 14 days
Direct sun
5° - 40°C
20% - 50%
Categories
What is Red ice plant?
Red ice plant (Malephora crocea) is a easy-care plant from the Aizoaceae family. Malephora crocea is a low-growing, succulent perennial native to South Africa. It features fleshy, cylindrical leaves and vibrant reddish-orange flowers that create a carpet-like groundcover. It is exceptionally tolerant of drought and salty coastal air.
Red ice plant grows up to 20cm, spread of 150cm, watering every 14 days, 5°C â 40°C, 20â50% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Red ice plant tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Red ice plant is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Red ice plant?
TLDR: Red ice plant needs Direct sun, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between 5-40°C with 20-50% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Red ice plant?
Water only when the soil has completely dried out. Provide almost no water during the winter months.
How Much Light Does Red ice plant Need?
Needs as much direct sunlight as possible to ensure profuse blooming.
What Is the Best Soil for Red ice plant?
Use a specialized cactus potting mix or a general-purpose potting soil amended with sand.
What Pot Should You Use for Red ice plant?
Unglazed terracotta pots, which help excess moisture evaporate.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Red ice plant and Where Does It Come From?
Malephora crocea is a low-growing, succulent perennial native to South Africa. It features fleshy, cylindrical leaves and vibrant reddish-orange flowers that create a carpet-like groundcover. It is exceptionally tolerant of drought and salty coastal air.
How to Propagate Red ice plant?
Stem cuttings
- Do not overwater the cuttings, as they are highly susceptible to rot.
- 1 Cutting
Cut a healthy shoot approximately 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long.
- 2 Drying
Allow the cut end to dry and callus over for about 2 days.
- 3 Planting
Place in a sandy soil mix and water sparingly.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Red ice plant Grow?
TLDR: Red ice plant can reach up to 20cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
20cm
Spread
1.5m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Is your plant showing symptoms?
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Meaning & Symbolism
Symbolizes endurance and warmth in the face of extreme conditions.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | â |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | â |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | â |
