Scientific Name
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium 'Variegatum'
Accepted Scientific Name
Aptenia cordifolia (L. f.) Schwantes
Common Name(s)
Baby Sun Rose, Heartleaf Ice Plant, Ice Plant
Synonym(s)
Aptenia cordifolia f. variegata, Aptenia cordifolia 'Variegata', Mesembryanthemum cordifolium f. variegatum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Mesembryanthemoideae
Genus: Mesembryanthemum
Origin
This succulent is a form of Mesembryanthemum cordifolium selected for its variegated foliage.
Description
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium 'Variegatum', formerly known as Aptenia cordifolia 'Variegata', is a lovely mat-forming succulent with branching stems growing from a woody base and smooth fleshy green leaves with cream-colored margins. The leaves are oval to heart-shaped and up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long. Flowers are bright pink to purplish and appear in the leaf axils in summer and fall. Fruits are up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) long capsules with brown tuberose seeds.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Water Aptenia only when the soil is completely dry and then provide enough to drench the soil to a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm). To check for dryness, poke your finger into the soil. Never water if the soil feels damp or cool, as Aptenia, like all succulents, is prone to rot in soggy, waterlogged soil. Water Aptenia lightly during the winter if the leaves begin to look shriveled. Provide only enough water to moisten the soil as the plant deteriorates quickly in cool, damp soil.
Withhold fertilizer is not needed and often results in a weak, floppy plant. Trim the plant as needed throughout the growing season, using pruners or garden shears to keep the plant tidy. Pot the plant and bring it indoors for the winter when nighttime temperatures drop below 50 °F (10 °C).
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aptenia.
Links
- Back to genus Mesembryanthemum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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