How to Grow Cotyledon Orbiculata

Cotyledon orbiculata, also called pig's ear plant, has gray-tinged, succulent foliage and grows up to 4 feet tall. It produces showy, 1-inch wide orange flower clusters on 2 foot stalks during summer months. The plants grow well in light shade or full sun, and soil that drains quickly. Cotyledon orbiculata is damaged or killed by temperatures that drop below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, so treat it as a patio or indoor plant in all but the warmest regions.

Things You'll Need

6- to 8-inch planter
Perlite
Loam
Peat moss

Small gravel
Balanced fertilizer
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Select a sturdy 6- to 8-inch planter with holes in the bottom to prevent root rot from overwatering.
- 2
  Fill the planter with a mixture containing 2 parts perlite, 1 part loam and 1 part peat moss. Mix in 1/2 to 1 cup of small gravel, depending upon the size of the selected planter.
- 3
  Plant Cotyledon orbiculata with its roots no deeper than they originally grew. Add water until the soil feels lightly moist.
- 4
  Move the planter to a location that receives full sun or light shade.
- 5
  Water lightly when the surface of the soil feels completely dry during spring and summer. Add only enough moisture to keep the foliage from shriveling in winter.
- 6
  Feed each spring with balanced fertilizer. Read package instructions to determine exactly how much to apply.
- 7
  Maintain a tidy appearance by clipping off dead or damaged foliage at soil level.

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