Hearts & Flowers

Plant Type: ground cover
Plant Height: 6 inches
Spread: 2-3 feet
Flower Color: pink or magenta
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Description:

Hearts & Flowers, scientifically known as Aptenia cordifolia, is a succulent groundcover native to South Africa. It is highly valued for its vigorous growth, drought tolerance, and the vibrant splash of color it adds to landscapes and gardens. This plant is also known as the Baby Sun Rose or Heartleaf Ice Plant.

Growing to about 6 inches tall, Hearts & Flowers can spread up to 2 to 3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for covering large areas with minimal height. Its bright green, heart-shaped leaves are succulent, retaining moisture and allowing the plant to thrive in dry conditions. From spring through fall, the plant is adorned with small, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink or magenta, which open in full sun and close in the evening or on cloudy days.

Aptenia cordifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is extremely drought-tolerant once established, making it a perfect choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and areas where water conservation is a priority. Despite its preference for dry conditions, it can also adapt to more humid environments if drainage is adequate.

In landscaping, Hearts & Flowers is used as a groundcover in sunny borders, as a vibrant addition to succulent gardens, or to cascade over walls and containers. Its ability to spread quickly and cover ground efficiently, along with its decorative flowers and foliage, makes it a popular choice for adding texture and color to garden designs.

Overall, Hearts & Flowers is a low-maintenance and versatile plant, ideal for gardeners looking to add year-round interest and color to their outdoor spaces. Its succulent nature, combined with the beauty of its flowers and foliage, makes it a favored choice for a wide range of gardening projects.