How to Grow and Care for Pig’s Ear Succulent

The Pig’s Ear succulent, known scientifically as Cotyledon orbiculata, is a visually striking plant originating from South Africa. It is distinguished by its fleshy, paddle-shaped, silvery-green leaves that are often edged in a deep red or maroon. This feature gives the plant its common name. During the winter, it can produce tall stalks with dangling, bell-shaped flowers in shades of orange and red.

Pig’s Ear Succulent Care

For healthy growth, Cotyledon orbiculata requires bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near a south or west-facing window is often suitable. While it can handle some direct sun, intense afternoon exposure can scorch the leaves, so an outdoor location should have partial shade. The vibrancy of the red leaf margins is directly related to the amount of light the plant receives; more light results in more pronounced coloring.

Well-draining soil is a primary factor in this succulent’s care. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is recommended to prevent water from sitting around the roots. Amending the soil with materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand further improves drainage and aeration for root health.

Watering should follow the “soak and dry” method. This involves watering the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes, then allowing the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a significant risk that can lead to root rot, so it is better to water less frequently, especially during its winter dormancy period.

This succulent prefers warm, dry conditions, thriving in indoor temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18–24°C). It is not frost-tolerant, and freezing temperatures can damage its fleshy leaves. If you live in a region with cold winters (below USDA hardiness zone 9b), grow it in a container that can be moved to a protected location. It has low nutrient requirements and only needs a diluted succulent fertilizer once or twice during its spring and summer growing season.

Propagating Pig’s Ear Succulent

Multiplying your Pig’s Ear succulent is most reliably achieved through stem cuttings, as this method is more successful than propagating from a single leaf. To begin, select a healthy, actively growing stem and use a sterilized knife or pruning shears to make a clean cut. Having a few leaf nodes on the cutting can improve the chances of successful rooting.

After taking the cutting, it is important to allow the cut end to dry and form a callus. Place the cutting in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area for several days until the wound is no longer fresh. This callusing process acts as a protective barrier against rot when the cutting is planted in soil.

Once the callus has formed, the cutting is ready for planting. Prepare a small pot with a well-draining succulent mix. Insert the callused end of the stem about an inch into the soil, deep enough for it to stand upright. Wait about a week before watering to encourage the development of new roots.

Place the potted cutting in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Roots typically begin to form within a few weeks, at which point you can begin a regular watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Common Problems and Toxicity

All parts of the Cotyledon orbiculata plant are toxic to humans, cats, and dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Place the plant in a location that is out of reach of curious pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.

The most common disease to affect this succulent is root rot, which is a direct result of overwatering and poor drainage. Signs of root rot include mushy, browning stems and yellowing leaves.

Like many indoor succulents, Pig’s Ear can be susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, which appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Aphids and spider mites can also occasionally become a problem. If pests are found, they can be managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolating an affected plant helps prevent pests from spreading to other houseplants.