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Mesembryanthemum

Mesembryanthemum criniflorum

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verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Also known as ice plant, mesembryanthemum is a tender succulent annual featuring daisy-like flowers with vibrant, crystalline-textured petals. This low-growing, spreading plant produces prolific blooms in pink, red, orange, yellow, and white throughout summer and early autumn. The foliage is fleshy and frost-sensitive, making it ideal for warm-season displays.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Mesembryanthemum is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Root Rotchevron_right

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Overwateringchevron_right

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Wiltingchevron_right

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Mushy Stemschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun essential; requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for profuse flowering.

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Water

Water moderately during growth; reduce in cooler months. Allow soil surface to dry between waterings. Very drought-tolerant once established.

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Soil

Well-draining sandy loam or specialized succulent mix. Add perlite and grit. Poor, sandy soil acceptable.

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Fertiliser

Light feeding; apply diluted balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen.

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Temperature

Prefers warm conditions: 65–75°F (18–24°C). Frost-sensitive; protect or grow as annual in cold regions.

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Humidity

Low humidity preferred. Excellent air circulation essential to prevent fungal problems.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic; safe for households with children and pets.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Mesembryanthemum petals look like they're sparkling?

Its daisy-like flowers have a distinctive crystalline-textured petal surface, giving rise to the common name ice plant — a striking visual effect in bright sunlight.

Can Mesembryanthemum survive winter outdoors?

Only in warm climates — it's a tender succulent annual that's frost-sensitive, so it should be treated as a warm-season display and replanted each year in cold regions.