Royal dewflower (Drosanthemum speciosum)

Also known as: Orange dewfig

The **Ice Plant** is a succulent celebrated for its glistening, dew-kissed leaves and striking floral display. Perfectly suited to arid environments, its thick, fleshy leaves retain water, allowing it to endure drought conditions. In spring, the Ice Plant transforms into a vibrant spread of bright magenta flowers, drawing pollinators and bringing a vivid splash of color to dry regions.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Royal dewflower

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

40 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-4 cm

Flower Color

Red Orange

Images of Royal dewflower

Quickly Identify Royal dewflower

Semi-woody subshrub, up to 2 1/2 feet (75 cm) tall

Tubular, succulent green leaves, 3/4 inch (2 cm) long

Orange-red flowers with lighter center and dark stamen filaments

Blooms from late spring to summer, opening mid-morning to afternoon

Thrives in full to partial sunlight, tolerates down to 25°F (-4°C)

Scientific Classification of Royal dewflower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Fig-marigold

Genus

Drosanthemum

Species

Royal dewflower

Planting and Growing of Royal dewflower

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Royal dewflower?

For Drosanthemum speciosum, a general principle is to water deeply but infrequently. Ensure that the water penetrates at least 15-20 cm deep into the soil to allow the roots to absorb moisture effectively. Each watering should provide around 150 milliliters, checking that the soil is dry before reapplying.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Royal dewflower? ›

What should I do if my Royal dewflower is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Royal dewflower? ›

How to save an overwatered Royal dewflower? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Royal dewflower?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

This plant thrives best in full sun to partial sun, receiving 6-8 hours of direct light daily. Adequate light results in enhanced flower production and a healthier, more resilient plant overall.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Drosanthemum speciosum? ›

How can you achieve the ideal lighting for this plant? ›

What benefits does the ideal lighting provide? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Royal dewflower?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Drosanthemum speciosum is between 60°F and 75°F. Maintaining this range ensures optimal growth and flowering, as it mimics the plant's natural habitat in South Africa. Temperatures in this range promote vibrant color and strong health.

What Soil is Best for Royal dewflower?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Drosanthemum speciosum thrives in soil that allows water to percolate easily, preventing root rot and other moisture-related issues. A well-drained substrate ensures that the roots get enough air, enhancing plant growth and health. While this plant is not highly demanding in terms of nutrient content, a soil with moderate fertility supports vibrant flower production and overall vigor. Avoid extremely rich soils to prevent overgrowth and diminished flowering. A light soil texture, such as sandy loam, allows for easy root penetration and spread. This, in turn, ensures that the plant can anchor well and access nutrients and moisture efficiently.

How to Fertilize Royal dewflower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Drosanthemum speciosum, it is crucial to avoid over-fertilizing. Use a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer at half strength. Typically, apply around 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of liquid fertilizer diluted per gallon of water.

How to Prune Royal dewflower?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by inspecting the plant and identifying any dead, diseased, or damaged stems or leaves. These should be the first to be removed to prevent any potential spread of disease. Drosanthemum speciosum can become leggy if left unchecked. Trim back long stems to promote a denser and bushier appearance, ensuring you cut just above a node to encourage new growth. Gently shape the plant to maintain its form and encourage even growth. Make balanced cuts around the entire plant, stepping back occasionally to assess its overall shape and symmetry.

How to Propagate Royal dewflower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Harvest seeds from mature Drosanthemum speciosum plants when the seed heads are dry. Ensure the seeds are completely dry before storing or planting to prevent mold.

Cut a healthy stem about 4-6 inches long, preferably from new growth. Remove the lower leaves and let the cuttings dry for a day to form a callus before planting.

Fill pots with well-draining soil and sow seeds lightly on the surface. For cuttings, insert the cut end into the soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Royal dewflower plant?

Repotting frequency: Biennially

Repot Drosanthemum speciosum when you notice roots poking out of the drainage holes, indicating it's become root-bound. A slow in growth or the inability to retain moisture might also hint at the need for repotting. Spring and Autumn are ideal times due to moderate temperatures and active plant growth.

Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow for root expansion, but not excessively large to prevent water retention and root rot. The pot should have sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, essential for the plant’s succulent nature.

Opt for a well-draining gritty mix, combining components like sand, perlite, and potting soil. This soil will ensure that excess water quickly drains away, mimicking the plant’s native arid conditions and preventing root rot.