Cotyledon orbiculata aka Pig's Ear
Taxonomy ID: 109
Cotyledon orbiculata, also known as pig's ear or round-leafed navel-wort, is a unique perennial succulent native to South Africa. This evergreen shrub can reach a height of 100cm and features oval, grey-green leaves that are covered in a white wax and occasionally have a red edge. Its fleshy leaves provide natural sun protection, often referred to as powdery. The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of orange, yellow, or red on long stems up to 70cm in late summer and autumn. Despite its delicate appearance, this succulent is frost-resistant, making it suitable for colder climates. Its natural habitat includes rocky plains and grassy areas with abundant sunlight. The flowers, although not as striking as the leaves, are odorless and bloom year-round. These flowers grow on slender, drooping stems that can reach up to 24 inches (60 cm) in height.
Common names
Pig's Ear, Pig's Ears, Dog's Ears, CotyledonMore information about Pig's Ear
How difficult is it to take care of Pig's Ear
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Pig's Ear due to its easy-going nature.
What is the region of origin of Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear’s native range is Southern Africa to the Middle East.
What are the water needs for Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
What is the right soil for Pig's Ear
To keep your Pig's Ear healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.
What is the sunlight requirement for Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Dog's Ears.
What's the right humidity for Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear thrives in dry environments, but if you provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on its leaves could create an ideal environment for certain fungal diseases.
How to fertilize Pig's Ear
The Pig's Ear is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Is Pig's Ear toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Cultivars
- 'Cedric Morris'
- 'Elk Horns'
- 'Oophylla'
- 'Silver Waves'
- 'Snowline'
- 'Staghorn'
About Ploi
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