Family: Crassulaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 429 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Cotyledon
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. Angola to Cape Prov.
Description
Cotyledon orbiculata, commonly known as Pig’s-ears, is a notable succulent that forms an integral part of the Crassulaceae family. This plant has a distinctive appearance that makes it a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts and gardeners alike. Native to regions stretching from southwestern Angola to the Cape Province, Cotyledon orbiculata thrives in environments characterized by well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.
Pig’s-ears are recognized for their fleshy, rounded leaves that often bear a grayish-green hue, and many varieties exhibit a contrasting red margin on the leaves’ edges. These leaves are typically ovate or orbicular in shape, hence the common name Pig’s-ears. Adapted to store water in its thick leaves, Cotyledon orbiculata is highly tolerant of drought conditions, making it an excellent plant for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
During the blooming season, Cotyledon orbiculata produces charming, pendulous flowers that hang from tall, slender stalks. The flowers are typically bell-shaped and can vary in color, with shades of orange, yellow, and red being the most common. These blooms not only add a splash of color to the garden but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Cultivating Cotyledon orbiculata requires minimal effort, provided its basic needs are met. The plant prefers a sunny spot with some protection from the harshest midday sun, particularly in extremely hot climates. While it is relatively pest-resistant, care should be taken to protect it from aphids and mealybugs. Overwatering is the primary concern for this succulent, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Therefore, ensuring that the soil is well-drained and allowing it to dry out between watering sessions is essential for maintaining a healthy plant.
Historically, Cotyledon orbiculata has been referenced as early as 1753 in the publication “Species Plantarum” by the renowned botanist Carl Linnaeus, denoted by the abbreviation “L.” in botanical literature. This historical background underscores the plant’s long-standing presence and significance within botanical gardens and collections globally.
In conclusion, Pig’s-ears (Cotyledon orbiculata) is a versatile and resilient succulent that can add both aesthetic and ecological value to gardens and indoor plant collections. Its unique foliage, striking flowers, and low maintenance requirements make it a valuable addition for anyone interested in succulents and drought-tolerant plants.
Common Names
Eng: pig’s ear, pig’s-ears
Por: cotilédon
Swe: vaxökenklocka
En: Pig’s-ears, Pig’s ear, Dog’s ears, Pig’s-ear
Af: Berg-koesnaatjie
Fi: Pyörömehilehti
Fr: Oreille-de-cochon, Nombril de venus
Pt: Cotilédon
Sv: Vaxökenklocka
Synonyms
- Sedum orbiculatum ((L.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Angola (native)
- Cape Provinces (native)
- Free State (native)
- KwaZulu-Natal (native)
- Lesotho (native)
- Mozambique (native)
- Namibia (native)
- Northern Provinces (native)
- Swaziland (native)
- California (introduced)
- Dominican Republic (introduced)
- France (introduced)
- New Zealand North (introduced)
- New Zealand South (introduced)
- Portugal (introduced)
- Spain (introduced)
- St.Helena (introduced)
- Tasmania (introduced)
- Tunisia (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jan 12, 2019 by jaumefranch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 21, 2020 by juan llanos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 27, 2019 by González Navarro (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 21, 2017 by Remo Cela (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 21, 2020 by juan llanos (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Sep 7, 2022 by Mikota (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 14, 2021 by isabel hernandez ruiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 8, 2020 by Ray Stannard (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 27, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 21, 2020 by juan llanos (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Dec 7, 2021 by Rosell Ramon (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 27, 2021 by Serge Odin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 21, 2020 by juan llanos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 29, 2018 by Carine Dendauw (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 4, 2020 by Bermudez Esteban (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Nov 9, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 3, 2022 by vpatt59 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 17, 2021 by Polly Arnold (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 11, 2022 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 27, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 12, 2021 by Shayna (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 15, 2022 by enrico Mh (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 15, 2021 by Rebecca McLannard-Nichols (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 7, 2020 by Kremer Rita (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jun 20, 2020 by audrey wills (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5361969)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:272761-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Cotyledon orbiculata L.)