Delosperma 'Limoncello' is a mat forming succulent prized for its lemon yellow daisy like blooms and shimmering ice crystal covered petals. Its dense evergreen foliage hugs the ground in tight mats that tolerate heat and drought with ease. Blooms appear in waves from late spring through frost, making it an exceptional low maintenance choice for extended floral interest. Often used in alpine troughs, green roofs, and gravel pathways, it also draws attention for its ability to attract pollinators in harsh environments.
Height & Spread: 2 - 4 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, gravelly or sandy soils
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer due to tough succulent foliage
Native Status
This cultivar originates from species native to South Africa. Though not native to North America, it is widely cultivated for xeriscapes and alpine gardens due to its toughness and beauty.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Butterflies
- Attracts butterflies such as Painted Ladies and Common Buckeyes which are drawn to its vibrant flowers for nectar.
Bees
- Frequented by native solitary bees and honeybees who forage heavily during warm dry weather when few other plants are blooming.
Moths
- Occasional visits from day flying moths such as the Chickweed Geometer add subtle ecological value to massed plantings.
Beneficial Insects
- Offers low cover for predatory beetles and lacewing larvae that patrol garden edges and rock crevices.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart for full coverage and to maintain airflow in hot dry environments.
Landscape Placement:
- Best used in gravel gardens, alpine troughs, retaining wall crevices, or at the front of sunny borders. Also thrives in containers and rock gardens where drainage is sharp and roots stay dry.
Companion Plants
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Bright yellow daisies echo the bloom color of 'Limoncello' and bloom for a long season with fine feathery foliage.
- Penstemon pinifolius (Pineleaf Beardtongue) - Features red tubular blooms on needle like foliage, attracting hummingbirds and thriving in dry open spaces.
- Sempervivum tectorum (Hens and Chicks) - Provides rosettes of succulent leaves in rosette form that create structure and color contrast throughout the year.
- Allium schoenoprasum (Chives) - Produces globe shaped purple blooms that rise above grassy foliage, pairing well with Delosperma’s sunny flowers and succulent texture.
- Delosperma cooperi (Ice Plant) - Offers vivid magenta blooms and identical growth habits, perfect for mixing color blocks in rock gardens.