A selection from an unpublished manuscript, Ancient Garden Plants and Modern Garden Plants

by James K. Sayre

Copyright, 2003. All Rights Reserved.

Red Apple - Aptenia cordifolia (Mesembryanthemum cordifolium) - family: Aizoaceae (Carpet-weed Family).

[Etymology: red + apple, a reference to the small bright red flowers that appear in sharp contrast to the dark green leaves ].

This is a low-growing succulent perennial plant that grows to about six inches high. It has dark green heart-shaped leaves. Its stems grow to about two feet long. In the spring, summer and fall it produces small reddish flowers that are followed by capsules which hold its seeds. Native to South Africa. Cultivated as an ornamental in North America. Naturalized in Florida, coastal Oregon and coastal California in North America. At least one cultivar exists. Frost tender. Does not enjoy temperatures below 45 F. Best cultivated in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 in North America. Propagated by seed. I have found that a small three inch cutting will root in water. It can then be transplanted into soil.

Other names: Baby Sun Rose, Heartleaf Plant, Dew Plant.

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Web page last updated on 27 June 2003.