Delosperma 'Golden Wonder' is a dazzling ice plant cultivar prized for its vibrant golden yellow daisy like blooms that appear continuously from late spring through frost. Its dense mat of succulent foliage remains evergreen in mild climates and develops reddish tones in cool weather. Ideal for adding color to hot dry locations, this plant also excels at attracting pollinators and brightening rock gardens with its jewel toned flowers.
Height & Spread: 2 - 4 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to frost
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Sandy, sharply drained soils
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant
Deer Resistance: Deer resistant
Native Status
This plant is a cultivated variety of Delosperma species native to South Africa. It is not native to North America but is widely used in xeriscapes and alpine gardens.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Bright, open flowers attract butterflies such as Painted Ladies, Clouded Sulphurs, and Skippers throughout the summer months.
Bees
- Visited by native bees and honeybees for its abundant pollen and nectar supply especially during midday bloom peaks.
Moths
- Occasionally visited by small day flying moths such as the Chickweed Geometer seeking nectar in sun drenched sites.
Beneficial Insects
- Low growing habit provides shelter for predatory beetles and ground nesting solitary bees.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to create a continuous carpet or allow room for spread among rock crevices.
Landscape Placement
- Excellent in rock gardens, alpine troughs, containers, gravel pathways, and wall crevices. Its vivid blooms and trailing form make it a standout in sunny drought prone areas.
Companion Plants
- Sedum spurium 'Dragon's Blood' - Adds rich burgundy foliage and pink red flowers that contrast beautifully with Delosperma's golden blooms.
- Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme) - Forms a low fragrant carpet that complements the spreading habit and sunny flower tones.
- Sempervivum tectorum (Hens and Chicks) - Offers architectural rosettes and exceptional drought tolerance, blending well in rock gardens.
- Armeria maritima (Sea Thrift) - Adds compact grassy clumps and pink flowers that echo the fine texture of Delosperma foliage.
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives) - Contributes vertical accents and purple blooms while thriving in the same well drained sun soaked conditions.