Pig's Ear

Cotyledon orbiculata is indigenous to southern Africa, with a natural range spanning arid and semi-arid regions.

• Native to South Africa, particularly the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Karoo regions
• Also found in parts of Namibia and Lesotho
• Thrives in rocky outcrops, dry slopes, and scrubland habitats typical of the succulent Karoo biome
• The genus Cotyledon comprises approximately 10 species, most of which are endemic to southern Africa
• Has been introduced and naturalized in Mediterranean climates around the world, including parts of California, Australia, and the Mediterranean Basin
• First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 in Species Plantarum

Cotyledon orbiculata is a robust, evergreen succulent shrub that can grow quite large for a succulent.

Stem & Growth Habit:
• Grows as a much-branched, rounded shrub reaching 30–120 cm tall (occasionally up to 1.5 m)
• Stems are woody at the base, becoming more herbaceous toward the tips
• Branches are stout, erect to spreading, and covered with a peeling bark in mature specimens

Leaves:
• Leaves are opposite, decussate (arranged in alternating pairs at right angles), and sessile
• Shape: broadly ovate to nearly orbicular, typically 5–12 cm long and 3–7 cm wide
• Thick and fleshy (succulent), storing water for drought survival
• Color: gray-green to blue-green, often with a distinctive white, powdery, waxy coating (epicuticular wax or "farina")
• Margins often develop a striking red to reddish-brown border, especially under bright light or drought stress
• The white powdery coating helps reflect sunlight and reduce water loss

Flowers:
• Blooms in winter to early summer (June–November in the Southern Hemisphere)
• Flowers are borne in dense, drooping, terminal clusters (cymes or thyrses) on elongated peduncles 20–40 cm tall
• Individual flowers are tubular to bell-shaped (urceolate), approximately 1.5–2.5 cm long
• Color: typically orange-red to salmon-pink, occasionally yellow
• Flowers hang downward (pendulous), with petals fused into a tube and reflexed tips
• Rich in nectar, attracting sunbirds and other pollinators

Fruit & Seeds:
• Produces small, dry follicles containing numerous tiny seeds
• Seeds are dispersed by wind

Cotyledon orbiculata is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments with seasonal rainfall.

• Naturally occurs in rocky, well-drained habitats including dry slopes, cliff faces, and succulent Karoo scrubland
• Prefers regions with winter rainfall (Mediterranean-type climate) but can tolerate summer rainfall zones
• Drought-adapted through its succulent leaves, which store water, and its waxy leaf coating, which reduces transpiration
• Flowers are pollinated primarily by sunbirds (Nectariniidae) and other nectar-feeding birds attracted to the pendulous, tubular blooms
• Plays a role in its native ecosystem by providing nectar resources during the winter months when few other plants are in bloom
• Can become invasive in regions with similar climates (e.g., parts of Australia and California), where it may outcompete native vegetation

Cotyledon orbiculata is toxic to humans, livestock, and pets.

• Contains toxic cardiac glycosides (bufadienolides), particularly cotyledontoxin, concentrated in the leaves and other plant tissues
• Ingestion can cause a condition known as "krimpsiekte" (shrink disease) in livestock, particularly sheep and goats in South Africa
• Symptoms of poisoning include staggering, trembling, convulsions, and potentially death
• The toxin can be passed through the milk of affected animals, posing a secondary risk to humans and other animals
• All parts of the plant should be considered toxic; keep away from children and pets
• Handling the plant is generally safe, but hands should be washed after contact, especially before eating

Cotyledon orbiculata is a relatively easy succulent to grow, making it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts and xeriscapers.

Light:
• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• At least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and to enhance the red leaf margins
• Can tolerate light shade but may become leggy and lose its compact form

Soil:
• Requires extremely well-draining soil; waterlogged conditions will cause root rot
• Recommended mix: cactus/succulent potting mix with added perlite, pumice, or coarse sand (approximately 50% inorganic material)
• pH: slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

Watering:
• Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings
• Reduce watering significantly during the dormant summer period (in winter-rainfall climates)
• Overwatering is the most common cause of failure in cultivation

Temperature:
• Hardy to approximately -2°C to -4°C for short periods if kept dry
• Optimal growth range: 10–25°C
• Protect from prolonged frost; not suitable for regions with severe, sustained freezes
• In colder climates, grow in containers that can be moved indoors during winter

Propagation:
• Easily propagated from stem cuttings or leaf cuttings
• Allow cuttings to callus for 2–5 days before planting in dry, well-draining soil
• Stem cuttings root within 2–4 weeks
• Can also be grown from seed, though this is slower

Common Problems:
• Root rot from overwatering or poorly draining soil
• Mealybugs and scale insects — treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil
• Sunburn if suddenly exposed to intense direct sunlight after being in shade
• Leggy growth due to insufficient light

Cotyledon orbiculata has several traditional and contemporary uses.

Ornamental:
• Widely cultivated as an ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container plantings, and drought-tolerant landscapes
• Popular in succulent arrangements and xeriscaping due to its bold foliage and winter blooms
• The striking red leaf margins make it a visually appealing accent plant

Traditional Medicine:
• In southern African traditional medicine, the leaves have been used topically to treat warts, corns, and skin conditions
• Leaf juice has been applied as a poultice for boils and inflammation
• WARNING: Due to the plant's toxicity, internal use is dangerous and not recommended

Ecological:
• Valuable nectar source for sunbirds and pollinators in native habitats
• Used in habitat restoration projects in the succulent Karoo biome