Northwest Blooms · Groundcovers
Delosperma cooperi
Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Height
- 3 to 6 inches
- Width
- 1 to 2 feet, forms a low mat
- Flower color
- Vibrant magenta-pink
- Foliage color
- Succulent, bright green foliage
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low; minimal maintenance required
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Delosperma cooperi, commonly known as Cooper's Hardy Ice Plant, is a mat-forming succulent admired for its dazzling, daisy-like flowers and evergreen, fleshy foliage. Blooming from late spring through summer, this plant produces a carpet of vibrant magenta-pink flowers with shimmering petals, giving it a jewel-like appearance in full sun. The flowers open fully during the day, creating a bright, eye-catching display that lasts for several months.
Native to the rocky, arid regions of South Africa, Delosperma cooperi is well adapted to dry, well-drained soils, making it an ideal choice for rock gardens, slopes, or as ground cover in sunny, drought-prone areas. Its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, combined with its long blooming season, has made it a popular option for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, water-wise plants that provide continuous color throughout the warmer months.
Works well in
Rock Gardens · Slopes & Banks · Waterwise Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Sedums · Blue fescues · Dianthus · Lavender · Rockroses · Creeping thymes
Design tip
Plant this colorful groundcover where heat radiates from stone, gravel, or paving to showcase its exceptional drought tolerance. Repeating broad sweeps beside boulders or pathways creates bold ribbons of color that unify sunny, low-water landscapes throughout the growing season.
