Pig's Ear
adromischus liebenbergii
Also known as: ["Pig's Ear Plant","Cotyledon liebenbergii"]
Overview
A succulent species native to South Africa, characterized by fleshy, rounded leaves and small, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Adromischus |
| Botanical Name: | Adromischus liebenbergii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or pumice.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days in growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use gritty amendments.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions. Protect from temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; do not overwater cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm increase in diameter).
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; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or blackened leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet. Prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots with bubble wrap.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; water before fertilizing; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAdromischus liebenbergii is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no known health risks if ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAdromischus liebenbergii is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no known health risks if ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAdromischus liebenbergii is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Adromischus liebenbergii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Adromischus liebenbergii require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in cooler climates.
Q: Can Adromischus liebenbergii be propagated easily?
A: Yes, it can be propagated from leaf or stem cuttings, which should be allowed to callus before planting in well-draining soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in growing s |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
