Cotyledon Orbiculata ‘Pig Ear’

Plant name: Cotyledon Orbiculata ‘Pig’s Ear’

Scientific name: Cotyledon orbiculata

Plant description:
Cotyledon orbiculata, commonly known as Pig’s Ear, is a drought-tolerant succulent valued for its thick, rounded foliage and upright growth habit. This evergreen succulent forms branching stems topped with fleshy leaves, creating a sculptural, architectural presence in containers and dry landscapes. Its sturdy structure and low water requirements make it a practical choice for modern plantings and succulent collections.

Flower description:
Mature plants produce tall flower stems bearing clusters of pendulous, tubular blooms. Flowers are typically orange to coral-red and appear above the foliage on upright stalks, adding vertical interest. Blooming generally occurs during the cooler months in suitable climates.

Leaf description:
Leaves are thick, rounded to oval, and gray-green with a powdery surface. Many forms develop a red margin along the leaf edges when grown in bright light. The fleshy leaves store moisture, allowing the plant to withstand dry conditions while maintaining a firm, compact appearance.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen succulent in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 9–11 outdoors; commonly grown as a container plant in cooler regions.

Mature height and width:
Typically 2–4 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide when mature, depending on growing conditions and pruning. Container-grown plants often remain more compact.

Landscape uses:
Well suited for succulent gardens, rock gardens, xeriscapes, and architectural container displays. Its upright structure pairs effectively with low-growing succulents and gravel-based designs. Also performs well as a patio plant or bright indoor specimen in containers with excellent drainage.

Native range:
Native to South Africa.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in full sun to bright, filtered light. Strong light enhances leaf color and red edging. Insufficient light may result in stretched growth and muted coloration.

Water requirements:
Requires well-drained soil and infrequent watering. Allow soil to dry thoroughly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and stem collapse. Reduce watering during cooler months when growth slows.

Pests and problems:
May occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids. Root rot is the most common issue, typically caused by poor drainage or excessive moisture. Providing gritty, fast-draining soil significantly reduces risk.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Handles heat well when soil drains freely and airflow is adequate. Sensitive to frost and prolonged freezing temperatures. Brief exposure to near-freezing conditions may damage foliage, while sustained cold can kill the plant.

Growing tips:
Plant in a gritty, well-draining cactus or succulent mix to prevent moisture buildup around roots. Use containers with drainage holes to avoid standing water. Gradually acclimate to full sun to prevent leaf scorch. Moderate feeding during active growth supports strong stems and healthy foliage, but avoid heavy fertilization that can lead to soft growth. Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage branching as needed.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.