Delosperma echinata, commonly known as the Pickle Plant, is an unusual low-growing succulent from South Africa that is prized for its quirky foliage and easy-care nature. The small, green oblong leaves are covered in tiny soft hairs, giving them the appearance of miniature pickles, which is where the common name comes from.
Although grown mainly for its attractive foliage, the Pickle Plant also produces cheerful yellow flowers during summer. In the early morning, the fine hairs on the leaves collect dew, making the whole plant sparkle in the sunlight.
Easy to grow and drought tolerant once established, Delosperma echinata is well suited to containers, succulent collections, rockeries and dry gardens. Its spreading habit also makes it useful as a small ground cover in warm climates.
At a Glance
- Botanical name: Delosperma echinata
- Common name: Pickle Plant
- Plant type: Succulent perennial
- Origin: South Africa
- Height: Up to 35cm
- Spread: Slowly spreading
- Flowers: Small yellow flowers in summer
- Foliage: Fleshy green leaves covered in soft white hairs
- Position: Full sun to light afternoon shade
- Soil: Free-draining
- Suitable for: Pots, rockeries, succulent gardens and dry landscapes
Quick Facts
The Pickle Plant is one of the more unusual succulents thanks to its soft, hairy leaves. It is drought tolerant, requires very little maintenance and is ideal for gardeners looking for an easy-care plant for containers or sunny outdoor positions.
Why Grow Delosperma echinata?
- Attractive fuzzy foliage that provides year-round interest.
- Bright yellow flowers during summer.
- Excellent for pots, succulent gardens and rockeries.
- Drought tolerant and easy to care for once established.
Growing Conditions
Delosperma echinata grows best in a sunny position with excellent drainage. Outdoors it performs well in rock gardens and dry borders, while indoors it thrives in a bright position with plenty of natural light.
Use a free-draining cactus or succulent mix when growing in containers. Heavy soils that remain wet for long periods should be avoided.
Planting
Choose a pot with good drainage holes or plant directly into well-drained garden soil.
Allow enough room for the plant to spread naturally as it develops into a small clump.
If growing indoors, position it where there is good air circulation and plenty of light.
How To grow the Pickle Plant
Delosperma echinata is an easy succulent to grow provided it receives plenty of light and is not overwatered. Once established it requires very little maintenance.
Watering
The biggest mistake gardeners make with the Pickle Plant is watering too often.Like most succulents, Delosperma echinata stores water in its fleshy leaves and stems, making it far more tolerant of dry conditions than constantly wet soil.Rather than watering to a schedule, allow the potting mix to dry before watering again.As a general guide:Spring and Summer: Water every 1–2 weeks, depending on temperature.Autumn: Reduce watering as growth slows.Winter: Garden plants usually need no additional watering. Plants in containers may only need watering every 3–4 weeks.Water thoroughly so excess water drains away, then allow the soil to dry before watering again. Never leave pots sitting in water.
Signs of Overwatering
Overwatering is the most common cause of problems.Watch for:Soft, mushy foliageBrown or black stemsYellowing leavesLeaves droppingA sour smell from the potting mixIf these symptoms appear, stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry. Plants with severe root rot should be repotted into fresh succulent mix.
Signs the Plant Needs Water
The Pickle Plant is very forgiving if it becomes a little dry.Signs it needs watering include:Slightly wrinkled leavesDry potting mixSlower growth during summerIt’s always better to water a little late than too early.
Feeding
Feed with a small amount of slow-release fertiliser when repotting every two years. Excess fertiliser encourages soft growth and is generally unnecessary.
Repotting
Repot every two years using fresh cactus or succulent mix. Choose a pot with drainage holes only.
Propagation
Delosperma echinata is easy to propagate.
Take short stem cuttings during the warmer months and allow the cut end to dry for a day before planting into a free-draining succulent mix.
Established plants may also be divided if they have formed larger clumps.
Common Problems
The Pickle Plant is generally trouble free provided it is not overwatered.
Brown, soft foliage is usually caused by excessive watering or poor drainage.
Other problems include:
- Root rot caused by constantly wet soil.
- Weak, stretched growth from insufficient light.
- Slow growth in heavy soils or poorly drained potting mixes.
Providing excellent drainage and allowing the soil to dry between waterings will prevent most problems.
Best Varieties
Delosperma echinata is usually sold simply under its botanical name. Other Delosperma species are also available and are often grown for their colourful daisy-like flowers and excellent drought tolerance, although they differ in appearance from the distinctive Pickle Plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pickle Plant easy to grow?
Yes. It is one of the easier succulents to grow provided it has plenty of light and is not overwatered.
Can it be grown indoors?
Yes. A bright windowsill or sunny indoor position with good airflow is ideal.
How often should I water a Pickle Plant?
Only water when the soil has dried out. During summer this is often every one to two weeks, while much less water is needed during winter.
Does it flower?
Yes. Mature plants produce small yellow flowers during summer.
Why are the leaves turning soft?
Soft or brown leaves are almost always a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
Related Plants
If you enjoy growing Delosperma echinata, you may also like:
- Delosperma cooperi
- Living Stones (Lithops)
- Zebra Haworthia
- Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
- String of Pearls
- Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Summary Information
- Botanical Name: Delosperma echinata
- Common Name: Pickle Plant
- Origin: South Africa
- Light: Full sun to light afternoon shade
- Soil: Free-draining
- Height: Around 35cm
- Growth Rate: Medium
- Foliage: Fleshy green leaves covered with soft hairs
- Flowers: Small yellow flowers in summer
- Fertiliser: Apply a small amount of slow-release fertiliser when repotting.
This is a variety of Delosperma that will grow well in containers as well as in the dry garden.