Burgundy Ice Dyckia

Plant Type: perennial, bromeliad (terrestrial succulent)
Plant Height: 12–18 inches
Spread: 18–24 inches
Flower Color: bright orange-red on tall stalks
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Burgundy Ice Dyckia (Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’): Deep Color and Armored Elegance for Modern Desert Gardens

The Burgundy Ice Dyckia (Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’) is a stunning terrestrial bromeliad that blends bold color, sculptural symmetry, and desert toughness into one striking plant. Its rosette of deep burgundy to near-black leaves radiates outward in a perfect starburst, edged with prominent silver-white spines that catch the sunlight. Hardy, architectural, and resilient, this plant brings dramatic contrast and refined structure to Arizona landscapes while thriving in the same hot, dry conditions as agaves and aloes.

Key Features of Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’

This hybrid Dyckia forms a dense rosette of stiff, triangular leaves with pronounced teeth along the margins. The foliage color ranges from rich wine-red to deep purple depending on sun exposure—intensifying in full sun and softening to olive or bronze tones in partial shade.

In late spring and summer, mature plants send up tall, slender flower spikes reaching up to two feet above the foliage. The blooms are bright orange-red, tubular, and long-lasting, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators. The contrast of fiery flowers above dark, spiny leaves makes this plant a living piece of art.

Over time, Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’ forms offsets around its base, creating tight clumps that can be divided or left to grow into an impressive colony. It combines the durability of a cactus with the elegance of a bromeliad—perfect for adding color and form to any arid or architectural design.

Growing and Care Tips

The Burgundy Ice Dyckia thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the richest color, full sun exposure is ideal; however, light afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch in peak Arizona summers. It prefers well-drained soil—a sandy or rocky mix similar to that used for agaves or succulents.

During establishment, water every 10–14 days, allowing the soil to dry completely between cycles. Once established, water every 3–4 weeks during summer and rarely in winter. It is drought-tolerant but appreciates occasional deep watering to maintain color intensity. Avoid standing water, as Dyckia roots are prone to rot in soggy conditions.

This species is hardy down to around 20°F and tolerates both extreme heat and cold desert nights. Fertilizing lightly in spring with a diluted cactus or bromeliad fertilizer can enhance growth and flowering.

Remove dead lower leaves and spent flower stalks to maintain a clean appearance. Handle with gloves, as the spines are sharp and rigid.

Landscaping Uses

Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’ is a show-stopper in modern, desert, and rock garden designs. Its rich color and geometric form provide contrast to green or silver desert plants like Agave victoriae-reginae, Blue Elf Aloe, or Golden Barrel Cactus.

It works beautifully in raised planters, decorative pots, and mass plantings along borders or pathways. When grouped, the interplay of color, texture, and shadow creates dramatic visual rhythm. In contemporary landscapes, it pairs perfectly with minimalist hardscapes, gravel, and metal edging.

Because of its small footprint and striking form, it’s also an excellent accent near water features, entryways, or seating areas where its detail can be appreciated up close.

Summary

The Burgundy Ice Dyckia (Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’) is a masterclass in contrast—dark, glossy leaves rimmed in silver-white spines, complemented by brilliant orange blooms. Hardy, drought-tolerant, and architectural, it bridges the gap between tropical beauty and desert resilience. Whether used as a single statement plant or in mass for dramatic effect, it brings intensity and sophistication to Arizona landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow)

Dyckia ‘Burgundy Ice’ Planting Guide

Location: Full sun to partial shade. Full sun produces deeper burgundy tones; light shade can prevent leaf tip burn during extreme summer heat.

Soil: Use fast-draining cactus or succulent soil amended with sand, gravel, or pumice. Avoid dense, moisture-retaining mixes.

Spacing: Space 18–24 inches apart to allow for mature spread and offset growth.

Planting Depth: Set the crown level with or slightly above the soil surface to prevent rot at the base.

Support: None needed; the rosette form is self-supporting.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting: Water deeply once to settle soil and remove air pockets. Do not water again until the soil is completely dry.

When is the Plant Established? The Burgundy Ice Dyckia is considered established after approximately 6–9 months, when new leaves and small offsets begin to appear.

Watering Once Established: Water every 3–4 weeks in summer during prolonged dry periods. In winter, water sparingly—once every 6–8 weeks is sufficient.

Drip Irrigation Setup: Use one low-flow emitter (0.5 gallon per hour) placed 6 inches from the rosette’s edge. Allow soil to dry fully between cycles.

General Watering Tips: Avoid overhead watering to prevent water from pooling between leaves. Use a layer of decorative gravel or crushed rock to retain warmth and limit weeds, keeping it a few inches away from the base for airflow.