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(Malephora crocea)
Coppery Mesemb (Malephora crocea)
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candiru
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candiru
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Photo by: candiru | License Type: PDM 1.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/ | Uploader: candiru | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Malephora crocea, commonly known as Coppery Mesemb or Crocea Iceplant, is an evergreen succulent subshrub native to arid regions, rocky outcrops, and coastal areas in South Africa. It typically reaches a height of 0.3 feet (0.09 meters) and spreads up to 3 feet (0.9 meters). The plant has a creeping, corky to woody stem that roots at the nodes when they come into contact with soil. Its succulent leaves are triangular in cross-section, a few centimeters long, and vary in color from pale green to reddish, with a somewhat waxy texture. Malephora crocea is known for its vibrant orange and red flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, borne on short stalks with numerous narrow petals in shades of red, orange, and yellow, sometimes with purplish undersides.
The Crocea Iceplant is valued for its drought tolerance, low maintenance, and the bright splash of color it provides when in bloom. It is recommended as a ground cover, especially in xeriscaping and in areas with a high risk of wildfires due to its low flammability. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun, requires minimal water, and prefers well-drained soils. While it is an excellent choice for rock gardens, coastal landscapes, and erosion control, Malephora crocea can be potentially invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Crocea Iceplant is valued for its drought tolerance, low maintenance, and the bright splash of color it provides when in bloom. It is recommended as a ground cover, especially in xeriscaping and in areas with a high risk of wildfires due to its low flammability. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun, requires minimal water, and prefers well-drained soils. While it is an excellent choice for rock gardens, coastal landscapes, and erosion control, Malephora crocea can be potentially invasive outside its native range, so gardeners should check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 0.6-1 feet
- Width: 3-4 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: Orange, Pink, Red, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to arid regions, rocky outcrops, and coastal areas in South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Red Ice Plant , Crocea Iceplant , Clavel De Sol , Rotes Eiskraut
Scientific Names: Malephora crocea , Malephora crocea var. crocea , Mesembryanthemum croceum , Hymenocyclus croceus , Crocanthus croceus , Mesembryanthemum glaucum
GBIF Accepted Name: Malephora crocea (Jacq.) Schwantes