Baby Sunrose
Baby Sunrose, or Aptenia cordifolia, is a low, spreading succulent perennial native to South Africa. It produces pendent, swollen, ovate leaves, which can range from green to grey-green, with small toothed margins and vivid red to pink flowers. It's a fast-growing evergreen succulent, that’s been known to survive and thrive in less than idea conditions, and looks great spilling over any garden wall.
Baby Sunrose should be watered just enough to keep its soil constantly moist throughout its growing season. As with any succulent, it's important not to overwater, so allow the soil to dry out partially between watering. During its resting period, the watering should be reduced drastically. In colder areas, make sure you apply a protective layer of mulch or straw around the plant, so it is well insulated.
Baby Sunrose can handle full sun but can grow in partial shade with fewer flowers, it can even tolerate full shade. Though keep in mind that too much shade can make it lose color intensity and maybe cause the plant to stretch out and become leggy. It's winter flowers need sun in order to open.
Baby Sunrose can survive a wide range of temperatures, from around 30°F (-1.11°C) to around 90°F (32.22°C). The best temperatures for growth range from 45°F (7.22°C) to 90°F (32.22°C), with the ideal growing temperature range for flowers between 65°F (18.33°C) and 75°F (23.89°C).
Baby Sunrose does not require particularly high levels of humidity, and it will do just fine in relative humidity levels of 45%–55%. But more humid climates can benefit its growth.
Baby Sunrose is extremely adaptable to a variety of soils, though it prefers fast-draining, sandy loam soil. And because of its shallow root system, it can even tolerate some clay soil. If your soil is not well-draining enough, mix in organic material, such as compost or leaf mould, as well as some extra sand to improve drainage.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer before Baby Sunrose's growing season. During the growing period, fertilize with an organic fertilizer every 4 weeks. In winter, there is no need to fertilize, as the amount of light and water should be reduced drastically. Avoid fertilizing during the rest period.
Baby Sunrose is rarely bothered by pests, however, you should keep an eye out for leaf-chewing caterpillars and aphids. Caterpillars can be removed by hand and aphids can be controlled with a blast of water or washed off with a solution of water and insect-soap. Systemic insecticide can be used in extreme cases.
Baby Sunrose can remain in the same pot for several years, though it is recommended to repot it every spring before active growth starts. The amount of soil it needs will differ, based on how much it has spread in the previous year. When repotting this plant, use a potting mix specifically formulated for succulents. Just make sure it provides good drainage.
Deadheading spent blooms will keep the plant looking tidy and encourage new flower growth. If the plant becomes scraggly, it can easily be pruned or sheared back to the desired size or shape about halfway through its resting period. It will stay neat and tidy, and will quickly grow new foliage.
Mulching can be beneficial for Baby Sunrose, you just need to be sure the mulch does not touch the foliage. Mulching can help keep the temperature and moisture around the plant consistent, aiding in controlling weeds and keeping the soil moist. Use a fast-draining mulch such as gravel, bark chips, or straw.
Baby Sunrose is quite easy to propagate by stem cuttings or leaves. Leaf cuttings should be taken from rosettes in which leaves have not yet grown their full size, no more than 2-3 sets of leaves should be used for a cutting. Place the cuttings in damp soil and water regularly. Stem cuttings should also be placed in well-draining soil and kept moist, and should root within 1-2 weeks.
Because this succulent is a fast groundcover, it requires no support. In fact, it's a great plant to hide unsightly slopes and walls. If Baby Sunrose is potted, it can trail or climb over a wall or other support.
Baby Sunrose goes dormant in fall and winter and is quite sensitive to overwatering. Reduce watering to the minimum in winter, this will prevent rot and encourage bloom in the spring. Pay attention to temperature levels as well, since low temperatures can cause discoloration and slow growth.
Baby Sunrose is not poisonous to pets, though it may cause mild stomach upset if ingested, so it's best to keep your pet away from it.
Baby's Tears
Baby's Tears is a small trailing evergreen perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region. Its rounded, mint-green leaves create a dense m...
Baby Rubber Plant
Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) is an evergreen succulent perennial that features glossy, round, dark green leaves. It typically grows 3-6 i...
Baby Toes
Baby Toes (Fenestraria rhopalophylla) is a unique succulent which is native to arid areas of South Africa. It has an interesting, distinct form and co...
Baby Necklace
The Baby Necklace (Crassula perforata) is a small, trailing succulent with tiny round leaves that are connected together on short stems, giving it a u...
Baby's Breath
Baby's Breath (Gypsophila paniculata) is a perennial flowering plant native to widespread regions across Eurasia. It is a hardy plant that is easy to...
Dwarf Baby's Tears
Dwarf Baby's Tears, also known as Soleirolia soleirolii, is a species of flowering evergreen perennial plant. It is part of the Urticaceae or nettle...