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Plant Profiles / Pig's ear
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Pig's ear
Cotyledon orbiculata · Round-leafed navelwort
A chunky succulent shrub with round, powder-grey leaves edged in red and orange bell flowers on tall stems.
Full sunLight
Every 2–3 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Thrives in full sun.
Water
Every 2–3 weeks
DryWet
Water deeply when completely dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry air suits it.
Temperature
0–38°C (32–100°F)
CoolWarm
Handles light frost and heat.
Growth
Moderate, shrubby
SlowFast
Grows 50–90 cm tall and wide.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Gritty, fast-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Twice a year
RarelyOften
Light feed in spring and summer.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Toxic to pets and people if eaten.
About this plant
Native to southern Africa, pig's ear is a tough, drought-hardy shrub. Its waxy bloom protects the leaves from sun. Birds love the nodding orange flowers in late spring and summer.
Best spots
Sunny balcony pots, coastal gardens and dry rockeries.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Cotyledon orbiculata |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Origin | Southern Africa |
| Plant type | Succulent shrub |
| Mature size | 50–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Orange-red bells |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Prune
Fertilise
PlantFloweringPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Rotting stems | Too much water or poor drainage. |
| Leaf marks | Don't handle the powdery coating. |
| Leggy growth | More sun needed. |
| Mealybugs | Treat with horticultural oil. |
Common questions
How big does it get?
Up to about 90 cm.
Is it frost hardy?
To light frost.
Is it pet safe?
No.
Can I prune it?
Yes, after flowering.
