Scientific Name
Mesembryanthemum haeckelianum A.Berger
Common Name(s)
Yellow Sunrose, Dew Plant, Heartleaf Ice Plant, Heart Leaf Ice Plant
Synonym(s)
Aptenia haeckeliana, Mesembryanthemum elongatum, Peratetracoilanthus haeckelianus, Platythyra haeckeliana
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Mesembryanthemoideae
Genus: Mesembryanthemum
Origin
Mesembryanthemum haeckelianum is native to South Africa. It occurs in karroid flats from Port Elizabeth to Alexandria.
Description
Mesembryanthemum haeckelianum, formerly known as Aptenia haeckeliana or Platythyra haeckeliana, is a succulent plant with 4-angled stems and flat green leaves that grows flat on the ground.
The flowers are pale yellow and appear in spring and summer.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8a to 11b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Water Aptenias 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 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 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.
Hybrids
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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