Consulta Plantas

Care of the succulent plant Aptenia cordifolia or Baby sun rose

The genus Aptenia, family Aizoaceae, comprises 4 species of succulent plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Aptenia cordifolia, Aptenia lancifolia, Aptenia haeckeliana, Aptenia geniculiflora.

Common names: Baby sun rose, Heartleaf iceplant, Heart-leaved aptenia, Red aptenia. This species is native to South Africa.

They are small succulent plants with a covering that have fleshy leaves in the shape of a heart and full of papillae (see with a magnifying glass). The flowers are small but showy for their purple color that contrasts with the bright green of the foliage. They bloom in summer; the flowers close when they do not receive sun.

Baby sun rose is used in rockeries, on sunny walls and in hanging pots. It is possible to consume them as a vegetable, it has a flavor similar to spinach.

Aptenia cordifolia needs full sun exposure; It can live in half shade but will not produce as many flowers. It does not resist frost but they do suffer from severe heat stroke and even drought. It also tolerates pollution from cities and proximity to the sea.

Heartleaf iceplant prefers sandy, well-drained soil.

Water very moderately, waiting until the soil is completely dry; They are very drought resistant plants.

Red aptenia does not need pruning or fertilization.

Aptenia cordifolia is not usually attacked by pests and diseases.

Heart-leaved aptenia propagate from cuttings or seeds.

Images of the succulent plant Aptenia cordifolia or Baby sun rose