Looking for low-maintenance hanging basket flowers that can thrive in the heat? Trailing ice plants (Lampranthus spectabilis) are a great choice. These succulents from southern Africa come in various colors and attract butterflies to your garden. They bloom from early summer to mid-fall in cooler climates and are perfect for full sun hanging baskets. Plus, they add unexpected color and texture to your patio.
To care for trailing ice plants, make sure they have well-drained soil. Mix potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice for better drainage. Succulent potting mix is also a good option. Keep an eye on soil moisture and water when the top few inches are dry. Trailing ice plants don’t like freezing weather and are best grown as annuals in USDA zone 8 and north.
In your container garden, trailing ice plants serve as the spiller, providing a unique look with their daisy-like flowers. Pair them with other drought-tolerant plants like rose moss (Portulaca grandiflora) to create a beautiful and low-maintenance hanging basket display.
Caring for your trailing ice plant
Trailing ice plants thrive in dry soil, so make sure to choose companion plants that have similar watering needs. Keep an eye on soil moisture in your hanging baskets, as they tend to dry out quickly. Water when the soil is dry to the touch and look out for droopy or shriveled leaves as a sign that your plants need water.
