Jewel of the Desert Topaz Ice Plant

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

Jewel of the Desert Topaz Ice Plant forms a tight, low mat of succulent foliage topped by daisy-like tangerine orange blooms with a clean white eye from late spring through fall. Its sun-loving, drought-tolerant habit excels in hot, well drained sites and rock garden edges.

Distinctive Features

Extended flowering window with vivid two-tone flowers held above dense evergreen mats. Exceptional heat and drought performance makes reliable color where many perennials struggle.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best flowering and compact habit.
• Soil: Very well drained, gritty or sandy soil; avoid winter-wet locations.
• Water: Low once established; allow soil to dry between waterings.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Mature Size: 0.25 to 0.5 ft tall and 1 to 1.5 ft wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Tangerine orange petals with a white eye create high-impact color in sunny, dry spots.
• Groundcover: Spreads into a low, blooming carpet between stones and along paths.
• Rock Gardens: Thrives in gravelly soils and heat-reflective sites.
• Edging: Neat, low habit defines bed lines without flopping.
• Containers: Performs in shallow troughs and pots with sharp drainage.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water lightly during establishment, then only in extended drought.
• Pruning: Shear lightly after peak flushes to refresh and maintain density.
• Fertilizing: Feed sparingly in spring; excessive nutrients reduce bloom and compactness.
• Mulching: Use mineral mulch or gravel; avoid moisture-holding organic mulches at crowns.
• Notes: Ensure rapid winter drainage to prevent crown rot and preserve evergreen foliage.

Why Choose Jewel of the Desert Topaz Ice Plant?

• Season-Long Color: Prolonged display of tangerine orange blooms with white centers.
• Drought Tough: Excellent performance with minimal water once established.
• Low Profile: Compact mat stays tidy along paths and hardscape.
• Heat and Sun Ready: Flourishes where many perennials fade.
• Easy Care: Minimal inputs when sited with sharp drainage.

Plant in the sunniest, best-drained spot you have and top-dress with gravel to keep crowns dry and flowering at their best.