Baby Sunrose, Ice Plant
Binomial name
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium
Light requirements
This cheerful little plant loves full sun! The more sunlight it gets, the happier it is, with vibrant flowers and thick, fleshy leaves. It can tolerate some light shade, but it won’t bloom as abundantly.
Soil preferences, including pH and drainage
Mesembryanthemum cordifolium thrives in well-draining soil, especially sandy or gravelly mixes. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH around 6.0–7.0), and good drainage is a must to prevent root rot. This plant isn’t too picky, but it does like its roots to stay dry between waterings.
Water needs
This plant is very drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for low-maintenance gardens. Water it when the soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering—like many succulents, it prefers to be on the dry side. Once established, it can handle long dry spells and still thrive.