Cotyledon orbiculata aka Pig's Ear

Cotyledon orbiculata, or pig's ear, is an evergreen succulent shrub. It belongs to the stonecrop family, Crassulaceae. Its native range runs from southwest Angola to South Africa's Cape region. It grows in deserts and dry shrubland. Wild plants also grow on rocky outcrops and grassy slopes. Gardeners grow it in many countries beyond its native range. It has escaped gardens in Australia and New Zealand, where it can become invasive.

The plant forms a bush with thick, brittle stems. Stems may stand upright or lean, with tips turning upward. RHS gives a garden height of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Its listed spread is 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. LLIFLE describes larger plants, reaching 3.9 feet [1.2 metres] tall. These can spread to 4.9 feet [1.5 metres]. Plants take about five to ten years to reach full size.

Fleshy leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Their shapes vary from broad paddles to narrower, spindle-like forms. Leaves may be pale green, grey-green, or blue-grey. A pale wax layer coats them, and red may rim their edges. This coating helps reflect sun and limit water loss. Touching the leaves can mark this wax layer. Small orange-red bells bloom in late summer and autumn. Their flower stems can reach 2.3 feet [0.7 metres] long.

Give this plant full sun and a sheltered site. South-facing or west-facing spots suit its need for strong light. Use cactus compost under glass, and keep the air dry. Sandy or loamy soil suits it when water drains well. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Water well during active growth, but reduce water at other times. Keep it nearly dry through winter. Feed every two weeks from late spring through summer. Use a weak feed with little nitrogen. RHS rates it H1C, suitable for outdoor summers in Britain. Grow it under glass for the rest of the year.

Its leaves and flowers suit pots, patios, and glasshouse displays. RHS places it among plants that need little upkeep. It needs no routine pruning. Grow new plants from seed or stem cuttings. Mealybugs, vine weevils, and aphids may attack it. RHS reports few disease problems.