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Baby Sun Rose (Aptenia cordifolia), Groundcover

Varieties We Bring In

Green Leaf RedAptenia cordifoliaBaby Sun Rose VariegatedAptenia cordifolia
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$6.95

Last received Oct 12, 2026.

We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.

Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.

LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterLow
Salt toleranceModerate
Mature size6-12 inches × 3+ feet (spreading)

Pet toxicity: Non-toxic to dogs and cats

Pet safety guide

About Baby Sun Rose

Aptenia (Aptenia cordifolia) is a fast-spreading succulent groundcover native to South Africa, bearing small heart-shaped fleshy leaves on trailing stems. Bright magenta daisy-like flowers bloom freely in warm weather, and the plant is widely used to cover slopes and bare ground in tropical and subtropical gardens.

Plant details

Bloom Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Flower Color
Red, Pink
Growth Rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Soil
Sandy, Well-drained

Best planting months

Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL

Recommended months: March, April, May, September, October, November.

January, other month
February, other month
March, good window
April, good window
May, good window
June, other month
July, other month
August, other month
September, good window
October, good window
November, good window, this month
December, other month
This monthGood windowOther months

Seasonal care

Bloom season. Good planting window.

Care essentials

Light

Baby sun rose requires full sun for best flowering and compact growth in NE Florida. Partial sun reduces bloom density. Its succulent foliage handles Florida's intense summer sun and reflected heat exceptionally well.

Water

Highly drought tolerant once established in NE Florida's sandy soils; water sparingly and allow soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of decline — this plant thrives on neglect in hot, dry, well-drained spots.

Soil & Fertilizer

Baby sun rose is ideal for NE Florida's sandy, infertile, well-drained soils and does not require fertilization. In richer soils, growth is overly lush and flowering decreases. If desired, apply a light balanced fertilizer once in spring. Excellent for slopes, rock gardens, and coastal areas with salt exposure.

Similar needs

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Common questions

Is Baby Sun Rose a good plant for St. Augustine?

Baby Sun Rose is a groundcover. Mature size: 6-12 inches × 3+ feet (spreading). Light: Full Sun, Part Sun. Water needs: Low. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a. Recorded salt tolerance: moderate.

What is the recorded pet toxicity for Baby Sun Rose?

Non-toxic to dogs and cats

Care information verified from

Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.