Aptenia cordifolia f. variegata | World of Succulents

Scientific Name

Aptenia cordifolia f. variegata

Accepted Scientific Name

Aptenia cordifolia (L. f.) Schwantes

Common Names

Variegated Baby Sun Rose, Variegated Hearleaf Ice Plant, Variegated Ice Plant

Synonyms

Aptenia cordifolia 'Variegata'

Scientific Classification

Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Mesembryanthemoideae
Genus: Aptenia

Description

Aptenia cordifolia f. variegata is a nice, mat-forming succulent with smooth, green and cream variegated leaves and bright pink to purplish flowers. The leaves are heart shaped and up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long. Flowers appear in summer and fall. The fruits are capsules up to 0.4 inch (1 cm) long with brown tuberose seeds.

Photo via wikimedia.org

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, which isn't 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.