Also known as Barilla · Common Ice Plant · Crystalline Ice Plant
Common Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum) is a striking succulent with glistening, crystal-like papillae on its leaves and stems, adaptable to dry coastal condition
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering.
Allow to dry out between waterings
25% intensity
Drought-tolerant succulent, prone to root rot if overwatered.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Can tolerate slightly cooler conditions but not frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeding
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly once the soil has completely dried out. Mesembryanthemum crystallinum is highly drought-tolerant due to its succulent nature.
Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot, so ensure excellent drainage and allow the soil to dry thoroughly between waterings, especially during cooler months.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems at any time. Light pinching of the tips can also promote a more compact form.
Pruning is generally minimal and not strictly required for health.
Easily propagated from seed or stem cuttings. Sow seeds in spring or early summer. Cuttings can be taken at any time of year, allowed to dry for a few days, and then planted in well-draining soil.
Both methods typically root readily with minimal effort.
Repot in spring only when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Over-potting can lead to excessive moisture retention and root issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum)
Where Common Iceplant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Mesembryanthemum |
| Species | Mesembryanthemum crystallinum |
Similar in genus Mesembryanthemum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
