Description and general information
This succulent alpine is native to the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa/Lesotho. It is perhaps the hardiest of all the Delosperma.
Plants form a slowly expanding mat under 5 cm in height. The succulent foliage is reminiscent of jelly-beans. From late spring to early summer, plants are smothered under 3-4 cm diameter brilliant yellow flowers with white at the base of the petals, imparting a white-eyed appearance to the blooms. 'White Nugget' is a white-flowered selection.
Cultivation
Delosperma as a group, are very drought tolerant. they will grow in quite poor soils. The main criteria is full sun and excellent drainage. They are hardy into zone 4 as long as they are not too wet in winter.
Bloom period
April in the south to June in the north.
Propagation
Easiest by seed but also by cuttings.
Seed
Surface sow seeds in a well-drained mix. They do not require stratification.
Division
Not generally practiced.
Cuttings
Tip cuttings may be taken just after blooming. It is best to use non-flowering shoots. They root in a few weeks if placed in damp sand in a slightly shaded frame.