Rocky Point Ice Plant

Rocky Point ice plant is an evergreen, succulent ground cover with small fleshy leaves and yellow, daisy-like flowers that can appear intermittently through the year. The accepted species, Malephora lutea, is native to the dry shrublands of South Africa and forms a dense, low mat when established. ## Growth and placement This heat-tolerant plant is used in warm-climate gardens for sunny, well-drained sites; in hot desert areas, some afternoon shade can reduce stress. It generally stays under a foot tall and spreads about 3–4 feet, sometimes farther in favorable conditions. The succulent foliage is easily damaged by foot traffic, so place it where it can spread without being walked on. Its bright flowers and evergreen leaves provide ground-level color across much of the year. ## Maintenance Water regularly while the planting establishes, then use restrained irrigation in well-drained soil. Remove damaged leaves or stems as needed and trim the edge if it grows beyond its intended area. A regional care profile lists USDA zones 8–11 and notes heat tolerance and low water needs; Kew recognizes Malephora lutea as a distinct accepted species. Sources: [Rocky Point ice plant care profile](https://swgardener.com/rocky-point-ice-plant/); [Kew species record](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/362524-1).