Delosperma cooperi is a low growing mat forming succulent with vibrant magenta daisy like flowers that bloom profusely from late spring through fall. Its fleshy evergreen leaves provide excellent groundcover for sunny well drained locations, and the bright flowers attract pollinators while adding a long lasting splash of color to rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Height & Spread: 2 - 4 in x 12 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring through fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, sandy or rocky soil
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided due to succulent foliage
Native Status
Delosperma cooperi is native to South Africa, where it grows in arid rocky habitats. It is well adapted to hot, sunny, and dry conditions and is widely used in xeriscaping and rock gardens worldwide.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Honeybees and native solitary bees are frequent visitors to its vibrant magenta flowers, supporting pollination in sunny garden areas.
Butterflies
- Painted Ladies and Cabbage Whites are attracted to the colorful blooms for nectar throughout the flowering season.
Beneficial Predatory Insects
- Lacewings and lady beetles are drawn to surrounding plants and can help control aphids and other small pests in nearby beds.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow full mat development and promote healthy airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, green roofs, and container edges where low growing, drought tolerant groundcover is desired.
Companion Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Fragrant spikes and silvery foliage complement magenta blooms and attract pollinators.
- Thymus coccineus - Low growing thyme offers vibrant magenta flowers and aromatic foliage for companion planting.
- Salvia nemorosa (Woodland Sage) - Upright flower spikes attract pollinators and provide height contrast to low Delosperma mats.
- Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks) - Rosette forming succulents add seasonal and winter interest in xeric gardens.
- Sedum (Stonecrop) - Succulent foliage provides textural contrast and thrives in the same dry, sunny conditions.