Description
Form: A trailing, clump-forming, succulent.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate.
Mature Size: 1' (30cm) high and 2' (60cm) wide. It can climb a fence to 6' (1.8m) high.
Flowers: Many narrow red petals open on bright, sunny days, close at night, and remain closed or partially open on cloudy days.
Bloom: Late Fall and winter.
Fruit: A seed capsule.
Leaves: Green, smooth and waxy, rubbery, with a rounded-triangle cross section.
Stems: The stems form roots where its nodes touch the ground.
Roots: Fibrous, non-invasive.
Wildlife: The flowers attract bees. Birds eat the red fleshy leaf tops. Mammals such as sheep may browse the leaves.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: South Africa.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 9-11. This plant is hardy to 18°F (-7.8°C).
Heat tolerant: Afternoon shade is needed in high temperatures.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun, except afternoon shade is needed in temperatures over 90°F (32°C).
Soil: Very well draining, dry, pH 6.1-7.8 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Water after becoming established: Once or twice a month. Water only if the soil is very dry. This plant is prone to root rot if overwatered.
Mulch: No.
First Year Care: Water up to several times a week to establish a strong root system, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Planting: 'Red Spike' Ice Plant can be grown in pots. Avoid areas with foot traffic.
Prune: Pince off spent blossoms to encourage further blooming.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed, cuttings of stems that include a root node, layering.
Uses: Ground cover, erosion control on banks and slopes.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Ice Plant family (Aizoaceae). It needs afternoon shade in high temperatures.

---

Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.