Cyanotis somaliensis aka Pussy Ears

Cyanotis somaliensis is a small evergreen plant from northern Somalia. It belongs to the Commelinaceae family and grows in dry habitats. These include desert and dry shrubland, according to Kew’s records. Gardeners may know it as kitten ears or pussy ears. Kew classes it as a subshrub; RHS describes a spreading perennial. Its low, trailing form suits growing in a pot.

The RHS size guide gives a height of 0.33 feet [0.10 metres]. Its fuller description places the height at 0.39 feet [0.12 metres]. The spread ranges from 0.33–1.64 feet [0.10–0.50 metres]. Plants take two to five years to reach their full size. The olive-green leaves range from lance-shaped to oblong. Each can reach about 0.13 feet [0.04 metres] long. White hairs stand out along the leaf edges. The plant keeps its foliage through the year.

Small purple flowers appear in summer, grouped in sparse clusters. Each flower measures about 0.016 feet [0.005 metres] across. The fine leaf hairs provide interest beyond the flowering season. RHS recommends this species for containers and patio displays. Its spreading shape gives it more width than height. In the UK, summer outdoor use fits its hardiness rating. It needs warmer shelter for the rest of the year.

RHS rates the plant H1B, with a minimum range of 10–15°C. For cultivation under glass, use bright light with midday shade. Choose a peat-free compost based on loam, with good drainage. RHS also lists sandy soil as suitable for this species. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil conditions. Keep humidity low and water moderately throughout the year. Its dry native habitat does not replace that watering guidance. During growth, give a weak feed low in nitrogen. Too much feed can lead to growth unlike its usual form.

RHS lists this species as a low-maintenance container plant. It needs no routine pruning to retain its form. Growers can raise new plants from seed or stem cuttings. RHS reports few usual problems with pests or disease. This does not mean the plant can never develop either. The supplied sources give no information on edible parts or toxicity. They also provide no species-level account of its fruit.