Rocky Point Ice Plant

Plant Type: evergreen succulent groundcover
Plant Height: 4–6 inches
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: golden yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Rocky Point Ice Plant (Malephora lutea): Bright, Spreading Groundcover for Hot, Dry Sites

Rocky Point Ice Plant is a heat-loving, drought-tolerant succulent groundcover that produces a carpet of golden yellow daisy-like flowers. Native to South Africa, it’s perfect for stabilizing slopes, covering sunny embankments, or adding vibrant color to rock gardens in Arizona’s arid climate.

Key Features of Rocky Point Ice Plant

• Golden Yellow Blooms: Produces cheerful flowers primarily in spring and summer, with intermittent blooms in warm months.
• Evergreen Foliage: Fleshy, gray-green leaves form a dense, low mat.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in extreme sun and with minimal water once established.
• Erosion Control: Excellent for slopes and banks, helping to reduce soil loss.

Growing and Care Tips

Rocky Point Ice Plant is tough, fast-growing, and low-maintenance.

Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, well-draining soils; will not tolerate soggy conditions.
Water: Water regularly during establishment; afterward, water deeply only once every 2–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Rarely needed; use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring if growth slows.
Pruning: Trim back lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage denser growth.

Landscaping Uses

• Groundcover: Quickly covers bare soil in hot, sunny locations.
• Rock Gardens: Provides bold color against stone and gravel.
• Containers: Works well in hanging baskets or large pots where it can spill over edges.
• Coastal or Desert Landscapes: Handles heat, wind, and poor soils with ease.

Summary

Rocky Point Ice Plant delivers vivid blooms, year-round evergreen foliage, and exceptional drought tolerance. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners wanting a colorful, low-care groundcover in Arizona’s challenging climate.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Rocky Point Ice Plant

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum flowering.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils.
Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart for continuous coverage.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—naturally spreading habit.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 4–6 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of regular watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 2–4 weeks, depending on heat and rainfall.
• Winter: Water monthly or less if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 6–8 inches from plant center.
Flow Rate: 0.5–1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One per plant; add a second for larger spread.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly in extreme heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Rocky Point Ice Plant:

• Soil Check: Let top 2–3 inches dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can lead to root rot.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to retain heat and enhance drainage.