Aizoaceae
Copper Ice Plant: Ground Cover Plant
Malephora crocea
An extremely low-maintenance and drought-tolerant succulent that requires full sun and well-ventilated, sandy soil. Water only when the soil has completely dried out, as standing moisture leads to root rot. It can survive frost-free or light-frost winters if the root zone remains dry.
Every 14 days
Direct sun
-6° - 42°C
20% - 50%
Categories
What is Copper Ice Plant?
Copper Ice Plant (Malephora crocea) is a easy-care plant from the Aizoaceae family. Malephora crocea is a low-growing, evergreen succulent groundcover from the Aizoaceae family, native to South Africa. Its fleshy, triangular leaves range in color from grayish-green to reddish, turning a distinct copper-red during periods of drought. From spring to fall, it produces multi-petaled fl...
Copper Ice Plant grows up to 30cm, spread of 150cm, watering every 14 days, -6°C – 42°C, 20–50% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Copper Ice Plant tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Copper Ice Plant is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 28 days.
How to Care for Copper Ice Plant?
TLDR: Copper Ice Plant needs Direct sun, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between -6-42°C with 20-50% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Copper Ice Plant?
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and opt for watering less frequently rather than too often—Malephora crocea tolerates drought much better than waterlogging.
How Much Light Does Copper Ice Plant Need?
Provide full sun: the more direct sunlight it receives, the more profuse and long-lasting its flowering will be. It can survive in partial shade but will produce fewer blooms.
What Is the Best Soil for Copper Ice Plant?
Plant in loose, sandy, or rocky soil with excellent drainage; heavy, water-retentive soil can cause root rot.
What Pot Should You Use for Copper Ice Plant?
Choose a ceramic or terracotta pot with drainage holes to facilitate the quick removal of excess water and prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Copper Ice Plant and Where Does It Come From?
Malephora crocea is a low-growing, evergreen succulent groundcover from the Aizoaceae family, native to South Africa. Its fleshy, triangular leaves range in color from grayish-green to reddish, turning a distinct copper-red during periods of drought. From spring to fall, it produces multi-petaled flowers in shades of yellow, orange, or red that only fully open in bright sunlight. Its woody, trailing stems root wherever they touch the ground, forming a dense, spreading carpet.
How Big Does Copper Ice Plant Grow?
TLDR: Copper Ice Plant can reach up to 30cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
30cm
Spread
1.5m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Copper Ice Plant?
TLDR: Copper Ice Plant is susceptible to 3 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects covered with a white, waxy, cottony material. They are common pests of houseplants and outdoor plants in mild climates. These sap-sucking insects feed on plant tissue, causing damage, stunted growth, and can lead to plant death if left untreated. They produce sticky honeydew which attracts sooty mold.
Overwatering
Overwatering occurs when plants receive too much water, depriving roots of oxygen and causing root rot. This environmental stress is one of the most common causes of houseplant death, as waterlogged soil prevents roots from breathing and functioning properly.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
