Cotyledon orbiculata aka Pig's Ear
Taxonomy
Common names
Pig's Ear, Pig's Ears, Dog's EarsHow to care for Pig's Ear
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Pig's Ear due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Pig's Ear does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
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.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Pig's Ear prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
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.
Humidity
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.
Fertilizer
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.
Region of origin
Pig's Ear’s native range is Southern Africa to the Middle East.
More info:
Wikipedia