Scientific Name
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium f. variegatum
Accepted Scientific Name
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium L.fil.
Common Name(s)
Baby Sun Rose, Heartleaf Ice Plant, Ice Plant
Synonym(s)
Aptenia cordifolia f. variegata
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Mesembryanthemoideae
Genus: Mesembryanthemum
Etymology
The formal epithet "variegatum" (pronounced var-ee-GAY-tum) means "variegated or having a pattern of different colors or marks."
Origin
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium f. variegatum is a variegated form of Mesembryanthemum cordifolium.
Description
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium f. variegatum, formerly known as Aptenia cordifolia f. 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 vary from oval to heart-shaped and can grow up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long.
The flowers are bright pink to purplish and appear in the leaf axils in summer and fall. The fruits are capsules that contain brown tuberose seeds. They can reach up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) in length.
How to Grow and Care for Mesembryanthemum cordifolium f. variegatum
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b: from 10°F (-12.2°C) to 40°F (4.4°C).
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.
Withholding fertilizer is unnecessary and often results in a weak, floppy plant. Trim the plant as needed throughout the growing season, using pruners or garden shears to keep it 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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