Aptenia cordifolia variegata

Common Name:
Variegated Baby Sun Rose (also known as Heartleaf Ice Plant – variegated form)

Description:
Aptenia cordifolia variegata is a striking trailing succulent native to South Africa, well-adapted to Melbourne’s climate. It forms a dense mat or cascades beautifully from pots and wall crevices, displaying glossy, heart-shaped leaves edged in creamy white around fresh green centres. In warmer months, vibrant magenta-pink daisy-like flowers burst forth, often appearing from spring through summer and sometimes continuing on mild autumn days. This cultivar thrives in well-draining soil with minimal water, favouring full sun to part shade. It tolerates coastal conditions and some drought, but is vulnerable to frost and requires protection during cold spells. Its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for rockeries, container plantings, hanging baskets, or as a colourful ground cover accent.

Form:

• Ground Cover

• Shrub – Clumping / Mounding

Mature Size:

• Height: ~10–15 cm

• Width (spread): up to 60 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun

• Part Shade

• Indoors / Well‑lit (in pots)

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

• Flowers in Summer

• May flower into Autumn in frost-free conditions

Flower Colour:

• Magenta Pink

• Purplish Pink

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Drought Tolerant

• Low Maintenance

• Attractive Variegated Foliage

• Rockery / Container Friendly

• Pollinator Friendly

• Ground Cover

• Perennial

• Coastal Tolerant

• Easy to Propagate by Cuttings

• Evergreen in Warm Conditions

Negative Attributes:

• Can become invasive unless contained

• Sensitive to frost

• Variegated chimera form may revert or struggle if not propagated correctly

Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and pets

Companion Plants:

• Other succulents (Echeveria, Sedum)

• Mediterranean herbs (lavender, thyme)

• Fine-leaved grasses and ground covers

• Coastal-friendly ornamentals like low-growing rosemary or creeping oregano