Ice Plant Pests

Delosperma ice plants have fleshy leaves.

Several different plants share the common name "ice plant." Delospermas have bright flowers and succulent leaves. A related plant, Carpobrotus, is also called ice plant. Glistening, water-storing cells cover the stems of Mesembryanthemum. All ice plants are insect-resistant.

Deer

Cooper's ice plant has bright purplish-pink flowers.

Delospermas are occasionally damaged by grazing deer. You may protect your ice plants by siting them close to the house or by surrounding them with plants deer dislike, such as yarrow, Russian sage or herbs. Deer repellent spray is available at garden centers and hardware stores, but must be reapplied throughout the season.

Mice

Mice and other rodents eat the Mesembryanthemum ice plant and will distribute the seeds throughout their area. Mouse traps and bait are available at hardware stores.

Warnings

The Mesembryanthemum ice plant was widely planted along highways to control erosion. As of 2011, however, it is considered invasive on the West Coast, crowding out native plants on bluffs and grasslands. Carpobrotus is also invasive. Do not use these plants in that area. Delosperma ice plants are non-invasive and safe to use on the West Coast.

References

• NC Cooperative Extension: Delosperma Cooperi
• University of Florida: Ice Plant
• New Mexico State University: Ice Plant
• Washington State University Extension: Hardy Yellow Ice Plant
• NC Cooperative Extension: Deer Resistant Plants
• UC IPM Online: "Protecting California from Ornamental Invasive Plants"; Greg Richardson