Pig's Ear
cotyledon orbiculata
Also known as: ["Pork and Beans","Silver Coins"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy, grey-green leaves and bell-shaped flowers, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Cotyledon |
| Botanical Name: | Cotyledon orbiculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct sunlight or outdoor garden in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, as this plant prefers low humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching; adjust for seasonal light changes.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense sunlight slowly over 1–2 weeks; place in bright indirect light if scorching occurs; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; stem cuttings root faster and are more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid environment with bright indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio); can also root in water for a short period.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks; fully established in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterilized scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidifier or plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems, cut just above a leaf node, and remove dead or weak growth to improve airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased parts, and encourage bushier growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Sharp, sterilized pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in active growth phase; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure soil is loose and airy to prevent compaction.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in cold; wilting or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to leaf drop or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; reduce watering to prevent cold-soaked soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; may enter dormancy to conserve energy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCotyledon orbiculata is toxic to cats due to bufadienolide compounds, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and cardiac effects. These compounds disrupt normal cellular functions, particularly in the heart and digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bufadienolide compounds in Cotyledon orbiculata are toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and potential cardiac toxicity. The compounds interfere with cardiac muscle function and electrolyte balance.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicCotyledon orbiculata contains bufadienolide compounds, which are toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiac issues, and neurological effects due to the disruption of ion channels and cellular processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cotyledon orbiculata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Cotyledon orbiculata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Cotyledon orbiculata flower?
A: Yes, it produces bell-shaped, orange-red flowers in summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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