Delosperma 'Violet Wonder' is a low growing succulent groundcover known for its vibrant violet flowers that bloom abundantly throughout the summer. Its fleshy green leaves form dense mats that suppress weeds and thrive in hot sunny conditions. This cultivar is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and container edges, providing colorful drought tolerant coverage with minimal maintenance.
Height & Spread: 2 - 4 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring through early fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, sandy or rocky soil
Watering Needs: Low; highly drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Generally avoided due to succulent texture
Native Status
Delosperma 'Violet Wonder' is a hybrid derived from South African ice plants. It is not native to North America but has been widely adopted in xeriscaping and rock garden designs for its vibrant color and hardiness.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Honeybees and native solitary bees frequently visit the bright violet flowers for nectar, enhancing pollination in sunny gardens.
Butterflies
- Painted Ladies and various skipper species are drawn to the abundant blooms throughout summer.
Predatory Insects
- Lady beetles and ground beetles use the dense mats for shelter, helping control aphids and other minor pests naturally.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow full mat coverage and encourage vigorous spread.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, slopes, and container edges where color and drought tolerance are desired.
Companion Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender) - Silvery foliage and purple flower spikes enhance Mediterranean-style plantings.
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Upright blooms attract pollinators and pair well with mat forming Delosperma foliage.
- Thymus serpyllum (Creeping Thyme) - Low growing mat adds fragrance and additional seasonal color.
- Sedum (Autumn Joy) - Succulent foliage and pink flowers provide textural contrast and complement vibrant violet blooms.
- Agave parryi (Parry's Agave) - Architectural succulent provides sculptural contrast to low groundcover.