Apthenia cordifolia

La Apthenia cordifolia it is one of the succulent plants that have a faster growth rate. In addition, it is very adaptable, to the point that if a stem breaks, the piece that falls to the ground will emit roots very soon, thus becoming an independent individual.

However, it is precisely this adaptability that makes it preferable to enjoy it in a pot and not in the garden.

Origin and characteristics of Apthenia cordifolia

It is a species of the Aizoaceae family whose scientific name is Apthenia cordifolia (although the one of Mesembryanthemum cordifolium). It grows naturally in southern Africa, but has become naturalized in many parts of the world.

It is a perennial herb with creeping stems which can be up to 3 meters long.. Its leaves are bright green or variegated, heart-shaped, and about 3-4 centimeters long. The flowers are pink, and measure between 1 and 2 centimeters. The fruit is a 1 centimeter capsule that contains very small seeds.

Is it invasive?

As it is a plant that grows quite fast, it could be even though it is invasive. In fact, in the opinion of many, mine too, yes it is, because it is easy for it to prevent other plants from growing. But does not appear in the Spanish Catalog of Invasive Alien Species, so in this country it is not considered as such. You can check it yourself by clicking here.

What are the care of the Apthenia cordifolia?

It is a crass or succulent plant, not a very pretty cactus, that does not need to be very aware of it. But it is important that you receive proper care, otherwise problems could arise. So let's see how to take care of it:

Location

Place your plant in an area where it will give it direct sunlight throughout the day. In this way, you will ensure that its stems and leaves grow healthy, and that it flourishes, producing a good number of beautiful flowers throughout the year.

It is not recommended to have it indoors, because in that place it would not receive the amount of light that it needs, unless you buy a plant growth lamp, or you have a room that receives a lot of light from outside.

Earth

It is not demanding in terms of land, but to avoid waterlogging It is preferable to grow it in light, porous soils or substrates.

Ideally, add a layer of clay or volcanic clay to the pot before planting it in it.

Irrigation

La Apthenia cordifolia withstands drought well, but it will be more beautiful if it is watered once or twice a week. In case you grow it in a pot, do not put a plate under it, since it is much better that the water can escape through the drainage holes.

Also, it is also not good to spray / mist the leaves with water. It does not need it, and if it is done it could favor the appearance of fungi in the aforementioned, which would end up damaging them so much that they would eventually fall.

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It is not necessary, but you can fertilize it with a liquid compost for cacti and other succulents. Do it from spring to fall, once a month.

Multiplication

If you want to have new copies, you just have to follow this step by step:

1. The first step is, in spring or summer, to cut a piece of a stem that you see is good, and that measures about four inches.
2. Then, take a pot with holes in its base of about 6,5 centimeters in diameter, and fill it with universal substrate mixed with perlite for example.
3. Next, water the substrate thoroughly.
4. Then, make a hole in the center, with a stick or a finger itself.
5. Finally, insert the cutting, ensuring that it remains about 2-3 centimeters buried.

Over the course of about ten days, or fifteen at the most, it will begin to root. Of course, leave it in that pot until you see that roots are coming out of the holes in it. Thus, its survival will be guaranteed.

Plagues and diseases

It does not usually have major problems with pests or diseases, but if the environment is very dry and hot, or if you are very thirsty, yes could you see a mealybug. This will be easily removed by passing a small brush soaked in water and a little neutral soap.

Rusticity

La Apthenia cordifolia resist the cold, but You need protection if the temperature drops below -3ºC.

What uses does it have?

It can be used for several things:

• Decorate gardens and terraces: it is a plant that has a lot in rockery, but it is also beautiful in a hanging pot or as a centerpiece.
• As a vegetable: indeed, the Apthenia cordifolia it is eatable. Its leaves can be eaten fresh in salads or as a garnish.

What do you think of this succulent? You have someone?