Baby Sun Rose, Heartleaf Iceplant, Dew Plant, Rock Rose, Noon Flower, Red Apple, Ice Plant, Heart Leaf Iceplant

Native to South Africa, this evergreen perennial thrives in warm and balmy regions, and its growth can be vigorous. Under the right conditions, A. densiflorus can become a small, symmetrical bush, three feet high and four feet wide.

In spring and summer, minuscule white or pale pink flowers would inconspicuously hide beneath the foliage. Upon the blossoms’ pollination, the plant produces small green berries, which turn red or black when ripe around wintertime. The plant’s berries are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

In the warm climate of Woodland Hills, A. densiflorus is a popular outdoor perennial. Its feathery, light green, fern-like foliage looks stunning as it leisurely arches out of flower pots or cascades down in neon-green waves over a sloped rock garden or bank.

Height: 3 to 6 inches
Width: 1 to 2 feet
Spacing: 24 inches

Soil: loam, sand, well drained
pH: acid, alkaline, neutral
Exposure: full sun to light shade

Water: low to moderate water
Tolerance: drought tolerant, xeriscapic
Toxicity: not found

Landscape Benefit: prevents erosion of banks and slopes

Gardenia. (n.d.). Aptenia cordifolia (Baby Sun Rose). https://www.gardenia.net/plant/aptenia-cordifolia

Horticulture Unlimited, Inc. (n.d.). Baby Sun Rose. https://horticultureunlimited.com/plant-guide/prostrate-acacia/

Plant Database. (n.d.). Baby Sunrose (Mesembryanthemum cordifolium). https://garden.org/plants/view/87122/Baby-Sunrose-Mesembryanthemum-cordifolium/