Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’

Description

Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ is a striking, low-growing succulent perennial known for its vivid red flowers that bloom from late spring through autumn. With its drought-tolerant nature and ability to thrive in poor soils, it is an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers. The fleshy, evergreen foliage provides year-round interest, while the bright blooms attract pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any garden. Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, ensuring long-lasting beauty with minimal maintenance.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ is in spring when the soil starts to warm up. This allows the plant to establish strong roots before the growing season, ensuring a healthy and vigorous display of flowers.
• Early Autumn: Planting in early autumn is also an option, giving the plant time to settle before cooler temperatures arrive. This approach encourages early flowering the following year.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and a profusion of flowers.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for preventing root rot. Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so sandy or gravelly soil enriched with compost is ideal.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth to encourage root expansion.
2. Soil Preparation: Incorporate compost or grit into the soil to enhance drainage.
3. Planting: Place Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ in the hole, ensuring the crown sits level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help establish the roots, ensuring the soil drains well to avoid excess moisture.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ is drought-tolerant. Water sparingly during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in colder months, as excess moisture can lead to root damage.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a light feeding of balanced fertiliser to encourage lush growth and an abundance of flowers.
• Mid-Summer: A second application of fertiliser can enhance flowering performance, keeping Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ healthy and vibrant.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong the blooming period.
• Autumn Pruning: Trim back any straggly growth in autumn to maintain a compact shape and prepare for winter.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a light layer of mulch around the base of Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
• Winter: Protect roots by adding a layer of gravel or grit to improve drainage and prevent frost damage.

Supporting the Plant

• Ground Cover Benefits: Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ forms a low-growing mat, making it ideal as a ground cover that enhances garden aesthetics.

Final Tips

Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ is an easy-care perennial that brings vibrant colour to any garden with its eye-catching red flowers. By planting in full sun, well-drained soil, and following proper care techniques, you can enjoy continuous blooms from late spring through autumn. For a stunning, drought-tolerant garden, incorporate Delosperma ‘Suntropics Red’ into your landscape for long-lasting beauty.

 

RHS Details

See more Delosperma from Proctors