Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant

Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant (Delosperma 'Jewel of the Desert Ruby')

Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant (Delosperma 'Jewel of the Desert Ruby') is a vibrant, drought-tolerant perennial admired for its striking ruby-red blooms with bright golden centers. Blooming continuously from late spring through fall, this long-lasting ground cover delivers season-long color to rock gardens, borders, and xeriscapes. Its low-growing, succulent foliage forms a dense mat that helps suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and prevent erosion. Thriving in dry conditions, it requires minimal water and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Distinctive Features

Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant produces an abundance of daisy-like flowers in intense ruby-red hues, enhanced by radiant yellow centers. Its succulent, bright green foliage remains evergreen in warmer climates, transitioning to bronze tones in colder months. As part of the Jewel of the Desert series, this variety is bred for an exceptionally long blooming period and improved weather resistance.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun for maximum bloom production.
• Soil: Thrives in well-draining, sandy, or gravelly soils; does not tolerate heavy clay.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; requires minimal watering.
• Humidity: Prefers dry to moderate humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9, suitable for arid and temperate climates.

Ideal Uses

• Ground Cover: Forms a dense mat that suppresses weeds and conserves moisture.
• Rock Gardens: Thrives in dry, well-draining conditions.
• Xeriscapes: Ideal for low-water landscapes.
• Slopes & Erosion Control: Helps stabilize soil while adding brilliant color.
• Pollinator Gardens: A valuable nectar source for bees and butterflies.

Low Maintenance Care

Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant is an easy-care perennial that thrives in tough conditions.

• Watering: Water sparingly once established; avoid overwatering.
• Pruning: Trim back spent blooms or lightly shear in late summer to encourage fresh growth.
• Fertilizing: Requires little to no fertilization; a light feeding in spring may promote stronger growth.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to pests and diseases.
• Winter Care: Protect roots with mulch in colder zones; foliage may turn bronze but will regrow in spring.

Why Choose Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant?

Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant is a resilient, long-blooming perennial that delivers bold color and thrives in dry conditions.

• Brilliant Ruby-Red Blooms with Golden Centers: A striking contrast that brightens any landscape.
• Extended Bloom Time: Flowers continuously from late spring through fall.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry, poor soils with minimal water.
• Attracts Pollinators: A valuable nectar source for bees and butterflies.
• Low Maintenance & Cold Hardy: Provides year-round interest in mild climates with minimal care.

For a bold, easy-care ground cover that thrives in dry conditions and delivers lasting color, Jewel of the Desert Ruby Ice Plant (Delosperma 'Jewel of the Desert Ruby') is an outstanding choice.