Want to add a dash of vibrance to any space? The Delosperma Jewel of the Desert Grenade Ice Plant does just that! With its beautiful magenta flowers, this succulent is sure to brighten up any garden space.
This article will explore what it takes to grow this succulent and how you can get the best results.
in this article:
About Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’
Delosperma Jewel of the Desert Grenade is a beautiful flowering succulent plant native to South Africa.
One of the best things about this succulent is its almost ever-blooming state. Its flowers adorn the leaves almost year-round (from early spring to late winter), bringing a splash of color to any garden. Coupled with its ease of care, it is an incredible addition to any space, as long as provided with basic care.
Related:
Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ Care
It is extremely drought-tolerant and can go for long periods without needing to be watered, making it perfect for those who may not have a green thumb or who don’t have a lot of time to spend on plant care.
Light
It is a sun-loving plant and will produce the most flowers when given at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can also tolerate some shade, especially in hot or dry climates where the sun can be intense.
Soil
When it comes to soil, Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ is quite adaptable and can grow in various soil types as long as they are well-draining. It is important to avoid soils that retain too much moisture, as this can lead to root rot. A cactus potting mix or a mix of equal parts perlite, compost, and sand can provide good plant drainage and nutrients.
Water
As mentioned earlier, Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ is a drought-tolerant plant that can go for long periods without needing to be watered. This makes it a suitable option for those who may have a tendency to forget to water their plants.
Avoid overwatering, as that tends to become the root cause of a lot of problems.
Temperature
In terms of ideal temperatures, Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ prefers to be grown in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). It can tolerate higher temperatures, but it is important to protect it from extreme heat and direct sunlight during the hottest portions of the day.
It is also important to avoid exposing the plant to freezing temperatures, as this can damage or kill it.
Humidity
Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ is adapted to dry, arid conditions and prefers low humidity levels. It is a succulent plant, which means it has thick, fleshy leaves or stems that are designed to store water, allowing it to survive in dry environments.
Fertilizer
A general-purpose succulent fertilizer can be used in the spring to boost the plant, but it is not necessary to fertilize it throughout the growing season. Over-fertilizing can actually be harmful to the plant, so it is important to follow the recommended application rates and avoid fertilizing in the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ is not typically necessary, as the plant is naturally low-growing and compact. However, if you do notice any dead or damaged foliage, it is a good idea to remove it to keep the plant looking its best.
Potting and Repotting Green Desert Spoon
Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ can be grown in containers or in the ground, making it suitable for a variety of garden spaces. If you choose to grow this succulent in a container, it is important to select a pot that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and has drainage holes to prevent excess moisture from accumulating.
Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ does not typically need to be repotted unless it has outgrown its current container or if the potting mix has become too compacted or depleted of nutrients. If you do need to repot the plant,try to do so in the spring or summer when the succulent is actively growing.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Loosen the roots: Gently loosen the roots of the plant with a clean trowel or shovel, being careful not to damage them.
- Remove the plant from the pot: Carefully lift the succulent out of its current container and gently shake off any excess soil.
- Prune the plant: Use a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut off any dead or damaged foliage.
- Place the plant in the new pot: Place Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ in the new pot and gently pack the potting mix around the roots.
- Water the plant: Water the plant well and allow it to adjust to its new pot for a few days before returning it to its normal watering schedule.
Propagating Dasylirion acrotrichum by cuttings (Step-by-Step)
- Select the cutting: Choose a healthy, mature stem from Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ that is at least 6 inches long and has a few leaves on it.
- Prepare the cutting: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut the stem just below a leaf node, making sure to remove any excess foliage.
- Treat the cutting: Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
- Plant the cutting: Fill a pot or container with a well-draining potting mix and gently plant the cutting, making sure to water it well.
- Care for the cutting: Place the pot or container in a warm, sunny location and water the cutting regularly to keep the soil moist. Be sure to provide it with the right care and conditions, and it will thrive in your garden.
Blooms
One of the standout features of Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ is its beautiful, vibrant blooms. These flowers are typically a deep red or purple and appear on the plant almost year-round (from spring to winter).
Toxicity
Delosperma ‘Jewel of the Desert Grenade’ is generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals, making it a safe choice for gardens with children or pets. However, it is always best to take caution when handling plants, as some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain plant species.
NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.
Common Pests
Aphids
These small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects feed on the sap of plants, causing damage to the foliage and flowers. You can control them by removing them by hand or by using a natural pest control spray.
Mealybugs
These small, white insects feed on the sap of plants and can cause damage to the foliage. You can control them by removing them by hand or by using a natural pest control spray.
Spider mites
These tiny, eight-legged insects feed on the sap of plants and can cause damage to the foliage. However, they can be controlled by removing them by hand or by using a natural pest control spray.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy
