Mesembryanthemum Succulents: Exploring 82 Varieties with Care Instructions

Are you on the hunt for an adorable and low-maintenance plant with vibrant flowers? Look no further than the Mesembryanthemum, or as some call it, the Ice Plant. This charming succulent has stolen the hearts of plant enthusiasts far and wide. Not only does it boast delicate and captivating flowers, but it also thrives in various types of containers.

In this blog, get ready to delve into the mesmerizing world of Mesembryanthemum plants. We’ll introduce you to a whopping 82 different types, each with its unique characteristics. But that’s not all – we’ll also share invaluable insights on how to care for these beauties. Get ready to unlock the secrets of nurturing these lovely succulents and witness their breathtaking transformation. Let’s dive in!

Types of Mesembryanthemum Succulents

Mesembryanthemum aitonis

This succulent variety features fleshy, cylindrical leaves and produces small flowers. It is known for its ability to thrive in dry and rocky environments.

Mesembryanthemum amplecten

With its thick, triangular leaves and vibrant flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent adds a burst of color to any garden or container. It is a low-growing species that spreads quickly.

Mesembryanthemum archeri

This unique succulent has elongated leaves that form a rosette shape. It blooms with delicate, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum articulatum

Commonly known as the Jointed Ice Plant, this succulent has cylindrical stems with segmented leaves. It produces vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, or pink.

Mesembryanthemum barklyi

Native to South Africa, this Mesembryanthemum variety boasts cylindrical leaves and vibrant yellow flowers. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens or container planting.

Mesembryanthemum bicorne

This succulent features triangular leaves and produces beautiful daisy-like flowers. It is known for its ability to tolerate heat and drought conditions.

Mesembryanthemum brevicarpum

With its compact size and fleshy, elongated leaves, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a favorite among gardeners. It produces small, colorful flowers that attract pollinators.

Mesembryanthemum canaliculatum

This fascinating succulent has narrow, channel-shaped leaves that give it a distinctive appearance. It blooms with vibrant flowers in shades of pink, red, or orange.

Mesembryanthemum corallinum

With its coral-like appearance, this succulent features branched stems and fleshy leaves. It produces showy flowers in shades of pink, orange, or red.

Mesembryanthemum cordifolium

Known for its heart-shaped leaves, this Mesembryanthemum variety is a charming addition to any succulent collection. It blooms with bright-colored flowers and is easy to care for.

Mesembryanthemum coriarium

This unique succulent variety features thick, fleshy leaves and produces striking yellow or orange flowers. It is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in sandy soil.

Mesembryanthemum crassicaule

With its thick, cylindrical leaves and showy flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a visual delight. It blooms in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum cryptanthum

Also known as the Hidden-Flower Ice Plant, this succulent has small, rounded leaves and produces inconspicuous flowers that blend into the foliage. It is a great choice for ground cover or container planting.

Mesembryanthemum crystallinum

This peculiar succulent is commonly called the Ice Plant because of its translucent, glistening leaves. It produces daisy-like flowers in various shades of pink or white.

Mesembryanthemum deciduum

With its succulent, green leaves and vibrant flowers, this Mesembryanthemum variety adds a splash of color to gardens and containers. It is a versatile plant that can thrive in various climates.

Mesembryanthemum delum

This Mesembryanthemum succulent features thick, triangular leaves that form tight rosettes. It produces showy flowers in shades of orange, pink, or purple.

Mesembryanthemum digitatum

With its finger-like leaves that resemble a hand, this succulent variety is a real eye-catcher. It blooms with small, star-shaped flowers in hues of pink, yellow, or white.

Mesembryanthemum dinteri

This South African succulent has cylindrical, green leaves and produces bright yellow flowers with a vibrant center. It is ideal for rock gardens or as a ground cover.

Mesembryanthemum emarcidum

With its trailing growth habit, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is perfect for hanging baskets or cascading over walls. It displays colorful, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink or purple.

Mesembryanthemum englishiae

Commonly known as the Baby Sun Rose, this succulent variety features small, ovate leaves and produces vibrant flowers in shades of pink or red. It is a popular choice for rock gardens and borders.

Mesembryanthemum eurystigmatum

This Mesembryanthemum species showcases flat, fleshy leaves and produces striking, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white. It is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in full sunlight.

Mesembryanthemum exalatum

With its elongated, succulent leaves and vibrant flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a captivating addition to any garden. It blooms in shades of pink, orange, or yellow and prefers well-draining soil.

Mesembryanthemum excavatum

This unique succulent variety features cylindrical leaves with a concave shape. It displays charming, daisy-like flowers in pink, purple, or white hues and is well-suited for rock gardens or container planting.

Mesembryanthemum expansum

Known for its spreading growth habit, this Mesembryanthemum succulent forms a carpet-like mat of fleshy leaves. It produces showy flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white during the blooming season.

Mesembryanthemum fastigiatum

With its tall, erect stems and colorful flowers, this succulent variety adds vertical interest to garden landscapes. It blooms with vibrant, daisy-like flowers in shades of orange, yellow, or red.

Mesembryanthemum flavidum

With its bright yellow flowers and cylindrical leaves, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a sight to behold. It thrives in sunny locations and is known for its resilience in harsh conditions.

Mesembryanthemum gariusanum

This succulent variety showcases compact, fleshy leaves and produces showy flowers in brilliant shades of pink, orange, or red. It is a drought-tolerant plant that adds color to dry gardens or containers.

Mesembryanthemum geniculiflorum

With its zigzag-shaped stems and colorful flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent stands out in any setting. It blooms with vibrant, tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum gessertianum

Commonly known as the Trailing Ice Plant, this succulent features trailing stems with cylindrical leaves. It produces eye-catching flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white and is an excellent choice for hanging baskets.

Mesembryanthemum granulicaule

With its clustered, granular leaves and striking flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a visually appealing addition to gardens or containers. It blooms in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum grossum

This succulent variety features thick, rounded leaves and produces showy flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white. It is a low-growing plant that is often used as ground cover in gardens.

Mesembryanthemum guerichianum

With its fleshy, triangular leaves and vibrant flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent adds a pop of color to any landscape. It blooms with daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, orange, or red.

Mesembryanthemum haeckelianum

Known for its unique and intricate leaf patterns, this succulent variety is truly captivating. It produces small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum hypertrophicum

With its thick, elongated leaves and striking flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent demands attention. It blooms in vibrant colors such as pink, orange, or purple.

Mesembryanthemum inachabense

This succulent showcases thick, cylindrical leaves that form rosettes. It produces charming, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white and is suitable for rock gardens or containers.

Mesembryanthemum junceum

With its slender, cylindrical leaves and delicate flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent exudes elegance. It blooms in pastel shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum juttae

Commonly known as the Barberton Daisy, this succulent variety features slender leaves and vibrant daisy-like flowers. It blooms in shades of yellow, orange, or red.

Mesembryanthemum kuntzei

This Mesembryanthemum succulent showcases compact, fleshy leaves and produces showy flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white. It is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in sunny locations.

Mesembryanthemum ladismithiense

With its rosette of fleshy leaves and stunning flowers, this succulent is truly remarkable. It blooms with vibrant colors such as pink, purple, or yellow.

Mesembryanthemum lancifolium

Known for its lance-shaped leaves and showy flowers, this Mesembryanthemum variety is a charming addition to any garden. It blooms in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum lilliputanum

This adorable succulent variety features miniature size and compact growth habit. It produces tiny, colorful flowers in shades of pink, purple, or yellow. It is perfect for small containers or fairy gardens.

Mesembryanthemum longipapillosum

With its elongated leaves and long, papery petals, this Mesembryanthemum succulent adds a touch of whimsy to any garden. It blooms with bright-colored flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum longistylum

Known for its long-stemmed flowers and slender leaves, this succulent variety exudes grace and elegance. It produces showy flowers in shades of pink, orange, or yellow.

Mesembryanthemum marlothii

With its thick, blue-green leaves and striking flowers, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a true beauty. It blooms with large, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum napierense

This succulent showcases cylindrical, fleshy leaves and produces vibrant flowers in various colors, including pink, orange, or yellow. It is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in sandy soil.

Mesembryanthemum nitidum

With its glossy, shiny leaves and showy flowers, this Mesembryanthemum variety is a real standout. It blooms in vibrant shades of pink, orange, or red and is well-suited for rock gardens or coastal landscapes.

Mesembryanthemum noctiflorum

Known as the Evening Flower, this succulent variety produces fragrant flowers that open in the evening and close during the day. It blooms with delicate, white or pink flowers.

Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum

With its sprawling, mat-forming growth habit, this Mesembryanthemum succulent creates a carpet of fleshy leaves. It produces small, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum nucifer

Commonly known as the Livingstone Daisy, this succulent features fleshy leaves and produces daisy-like flowers in vibrant colors such as pink, orange, or purple. It is a popular choice for flower beds or containers.

Mesembryanthemum occidentale

This succulent variety showcases thick, triangular leaves and produces attractive, pastel-colored flowers. It is a low-growing plant that adds a touch of beauty to rock gardens or borders.

Mesembryanthemum oculatum

With its eye-catching foliage and mesmerizing flowers, this succulent variety is a true gem. It features thick, triangular leaves adorned with distinctive markings and produces striking flowers in shades of pink, orange, or red.

Mesembryanthemum pallens

Known for its pale, delicate appearance, this Mesembryanthemum succulent adds a soft touch to any garden. It blooms with small, star-shaped flowers in shades of white or pale pink.

Mesembryanthemum parviflorum

This petite succulent variety showcases small, rounded leaves and produces tiny, delicate flowers. It blooms in vibrant colors such as pink, purple, or white and is perfect for rock gardens or container arrangements.

Mesembryanthemum paulum

With its compact size and clustered leaves, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a charming addition to any collection. It blooms with small, colorful flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum pellitum

This succulent variety features cylindrical leaves covered with tiny, papery bumps. It produces vibrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white and is well-suited for rock gardens or coastal landscapes.

Mesembryanthemum prasinum

With its green, succulent leaves and eye-catching flowers, this Mesembryanthemum variety adds a fresh touch to any garden. It blooms with small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum pseudoschlichtianum

Known for its intricate leaf patterns and showy flowers, this succulent variety is a true marvel. It produces bright-colored flowers in shades of pink, orange, or red.

Mesembryanthemum quartziticola

This Mesembryanthemum succulent thrives in quartz-rich soil and displays thick, triangular leaves. It blooms with daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white and is well-suited for rock gardens or desert landscapes.

Mesembryanthemum rapaceum

With its spiky, succulent leaves and dramatic flowers, this Mesembryanthemum variety is a standout. It blooms with vibrant flowers in shades of pink, orange, or yellow and is a great addition to succulent arrangements.

Mesembryanthemum resurgens

Known as the Resurrection Plant, this succulent variety has a unique characteristic. It can tolerate extreme drought conditions and appear desiccated, but quickly revives with water, showcasing vibrant flowers in various shades.

Mesembryanthemum rhizophorum

Also known as the Trailing Ice Plant, this succulent has sprawling stems and cylindrical leaves. It produces bright, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum salicornioides

With its succulent, cylindrical leaves and unique texture, this Mesembryanthemum variety adds an interesting element to any garden or container. It produces small, yellow flowers.

Mesembryanthemum schlichtianum

This striking succulent has thick, triangular leaves and vibrant flowers that range from orange to red. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate hot and dry conditions.

Mesembryanthemum serotinum

With its thick, fleshy leaves and low-growing habit, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a great choice for ground cover or rock gardens. It produces small, white or pink flowers.

Mesembryanthemum sinuosum

Commonly known as the Semicircular Ice Plant, this succulent features curved, fleshy leaves and produces bright yellow flowers. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand coastal conditions.

Mesembryanthemum sladenianum

This Mesembryanthemum variety has thick, cylindrical leaves and produces eye-catching flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white. It is a sun-loving plant that thrives in dry conditions.

Mesembryanthemum spinuliferum

With its succulent, spiky leaves and trailing growth habit, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is perfect for hanging baskets. It blooms with small, colorful flowers that attract pollinators.

Mesembryanthemum splendens

This beautiful succulent features thick, triangular leaves and produces stunning flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white. It is a favorite among gardeners for its vibrant blooms.

Mesembryanthemum springbokense

This unique succulent has elongated leaves that form a rosette shape. It produces showy flowers in vibrant shades of orange, pink, or red.

Mesembryanthemum stenandrum

With its tight clusters of fleshy leaves, this Mesembryanthemum variety creates an attractive and compact display. It blooms with delicate flowers in shades of pink or purple.

Mesembryanthemum subnodosum

Native to South Africa, this succulent has oval-shaped leaves and produces small, white flowers. It is a drought-tolerant plant that adds beauty to dry landscapes.

Mesembryanthemum subtruncatum

With its fleshy, triangular leaves and compact growth habit, this Mesembryanthemum succulent is a great choice for small gardens or containers. It produces bright yellow flowers.

Mesembryanthemum tenuiflorum

With its slender, elongated leaves, this succulent variety is visually appealing. It blooms with small, delicate flowers in shades of pink, orange, or white.

Mesembryanthemum tetragonum

Commonly known as the Four-Cornered Ice Plant, this succulent features square-shaped leaves and produces bright yellow or orange flowers. It is a hardy plant that is suitable for coastal gardens.

Mesembryanthemum tomentosum

This Mesembryanthemum succulent has velvety, grey-green leaves and produces vibrant pink or purple flowers. It is a heat-tolerant plant that thrives in dry conditions.

Mesembryanthemum tortuosum

With its twisted, fleshy leaves, this succulent adds an intriguing texture to gardens or containers. It produces bright yellow or orange flowers and is drought-tolerant.

Mesembryanthemum trichotomum

This fascinating succulent has branching stems and produces striking pink or purple flowers. It is a resilient plant that can thrive in challenging conditions.

Mesembryanthemum vaginatum

With its cylindrical leaves and trailing growth habit, this Mesembryanthemum variety is perfect for cascading over walls or containers. It produces bright pink or purple flowers.

Mesembryanthemum vanheerdei

Also known as the Cape Ice Plant, this succulent features succulent, triangular leaves and produces vibrant flowers in shades of pink, orange, or white. It is a popular choice for ground cover.

Mesembryanthemum vanrensburgii

This Mesembryanthemum succulent has thick, fleshy leaves and produces beautiful flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white. It is a versatile plant that can tolerate various growing conditions.

Mesembryanthemum variants

With its diverse leaf shapes and sizes, this succulent creates an interesting and textured display. It blooms with vibrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Mesembryanthemum viridiflorum

This unique succulent has cylindrical, green leaves with a slightly curved shape. It produces small, greenish-white flowers and is a resilient plant that can tolerate harsh conditions.

How to Grow Mesembryanthemum Plants

Light

Mesembryanthemums thrive in sunny spots that receive full sunlight. If you’re growing them indoors, place them near a sunny window to ensure they get enough light.

Read also:
How Much Light Do Succulents Need?

Watering

Just like other succulents, these plants require proper watering. Water the soil in the pot until it’s soaked, and then wait for the soil to dry out before watering again. To check if it’s time to water, simply stick your finger into the pot and make sure the soil feels dry.

Read also:
How Often to Water Succulents?

Soil

When planting Mesembryanthemum, it’s important to use well-draining soil, whether it’s in a pot or on the ground. The ideal soil should be dry, sandy, and low in nutrients, with a bit of salt. If you have cactus mix soil, that works well too. If you’re using a pot, make sure it has good drainage.

Read also:
Best Soil for Succulents in Pots

Fertilizing

To boost their growth and blooming potential, add liquid fertilizer in the summer. This will provide them with the extra nutrients they need during their blooming season.

Read also:
Best Fertilizer for Succulents

Climate

Mesembryanthemums originally come from arid regions, so they thrive in warm climates. The room temperature should be around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but it doesn’t have to be hotter just because it’s a tropical plant. However, remember that these plants don’t tolerate cold winters well. If your region experiences harsh winters, it’s best to bring them indoors to protect them from frost.

How to Propagate Mesembryanthemum

Mesembryanthemums are grown from seeds. If you’re planting them outdoors, sow the seeds sequentially at the end of May, after the spring frost has passed. This will extend their flowering season.

If you’re growing them indoors, start the process about three months earlier. Begin in February or March and allow the seeds about three weeks to germinate in a dark environment. The room temperature should be between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

For smaller species, you can transfer them to your outdoor garden in spring, planting them about 6 inches apart. Larger species should be spaced 8-12 inches apart.

FAQs

Is Mesembryanthemum a Perennial?

Mesembryanthemums are considered half-hardy annual plants. They have the characteristics of both perennials and succulents, and their flowers are truly their standout feature.

When Can I Plant Mesembryanthemums?

Depending on whether you’re planting them indoors or outdoors, anytime between February and April is suitable for planting the seeds. Ensure the soil is well-draining and the seeds are slightly damp before planting. If you have compost or vermiculite, a sprinkle of that can be beneficial. Keep the seeds in a sealed container at an ideal temperature until the germination process is complete, which usually takes 15-30 days.

Do Bees Like Mesembryanthemum?

Yes, bees are quite fond of Mesembryanthemums. In fact, these plants are considered bee-friendly and attract these busy pollinators. They are on the list of plants recommended by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust along with other popular garden flowers like Livingstone Daisy, Begonia, Impatiens, Hydrangea, Geranium, and Pansy.