Pig’s Ear
(Cotyledon orbiculata)
Pig’s Ear (Cotyledon orbiculata)
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Abu Shawka
Public domain
Image By:
Abu Shawka
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Abu Shawka | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: Abu Shawka | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Cotyledon_orbiculata_-_pigs_ear_-_Cape_Point_-_South_Africa_2.JPG | Notes: == {{int:filedesc}} == {{Information |description={{en|1=Shingle beach and sea kale Near Landguard fort, looking towards containers corner of the port of Felixstowe.}} |date=2009-08-14 |source=From [http://www.geograph.org.uk/ph
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Cotyledon orbiculata, commonly known as Pig’s Ear, is an evergreen succulent native to rocky outcrops and arid regions in South Africa. It typically grows to a height of 1.3 m (4.3 ft) and is known for its thick, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves that are often edged with a red line. The plant’s appearance can vary significantly depending on its growing conditions. The flowers of Cotyledon orbiculata emerge in the winter and are bell-shaped, hanging in clusters from tall stalks. While the most common flower color is orange-red, yellow varieties do exist, and the flowers are generally showy, with each one being less than 3 cm (1.2 in) long.
Pig’s Ear is appreciated for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a container plant. It requires minimal maintenance and is often used in xeriscaping. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with well-draining soil, and needs only occasional watering once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings. While it is a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and fungal diseases if conditions are too damp.CC BY-SA 4.0
Pig’s Ear is appreciated for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a container plant. It requires minimal maintenance and is often used in xeriscaping. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with well-draining soil, and needs only occasional watering once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings. While it is a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and fungal diseases if conditions are too damp.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 0.3-0.7 feet
- Width: 0.3-0.7 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
- Flower Color: Orange, Pink, Red
- Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to rocky outcrops and arid regions in South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: Round-Leafed Navel-Wort, Pig’s-Ears, Vaxökenklocka
Scientific Names: , Cotyledon orbiculata, Cotyledon papillaris, Cotyledon undulata, Cotyledon macrantha, Cotyledon orbiculata var. oophylla, Cotyledon decussata, Cotyledon orbiculata var. orbiculata, Cotyledon mucronata, Cotyledon orbiculata var. dinteri
GBIF Accepted Name: Cotyledon orbiculata L.