How to Provide Proper Cotyledon Pendens Care

Cotyledon pendens, commonly known as Cliff Cotyledon, is a succulent native to South Africa. Its defining feature is its cascading stems of plump, teardrop-shaped leaves, making it a striking plant for hanging baskets. The leaves are a soft, grey-green and covered in a fine, powdery bloom, an adaptation that helps it survive in its dry, native habitat.

Essential Care Guide

Light

This succulent thrives in bright, indirect sunlight for four to six hours daily. A placement near a window with some direct morning sun is beneficial, but harsh afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light will cause the plant to stretch, a condition known as etiolation.

Soil

This plant requires a substrate with excellent drainage to prevent root issues. A commercial cactus or succulent mix provides a good foundation, but amending it with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand is recommended. This ensures that water flows freely through the pot and prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged.

Water

Follow the “soak and dry” method. Water the plant thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. You can check for dryness by inserting a finger into the soil. Reduce watering frequency significantly during the dormant winter months to prevent overwatering.

Temperature and Humidity

This succulent prefers temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is not cold-hardy, so it must be protected from frost. Average household humidity is adequate, as the plant is adapted to dry conditions and does not require supplemental humidity.

Fertilizer

This plant is a light feeder and only needs fertilizer during its active growing season in spring and summer. Apply a balanced succulent fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, once in the spring and once in the summer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to weak growth and burn the roots.

Propagation Techniques

Propagate this plant using stem cuttings from a healthy stem. With a clean, sharp blade, take a cutting that is a few inches long with several leaves. Allow the cutting to dry for several days in a warm place. This drying period allows the cut end to form a callus, which prevents rot when planted.

Once callused, plant the cutting in a small pot with a fast-draining soil mix. Insert the callused end about an inch into the soil, firming it gently for support. Water very lightly and place the pot in bright, indirect light. Allow the soil to dry out between light waterings to encourage root development.

Common Issues and Solutions

Pests like mealybugs and aphids can be a problem. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses and can be managed by spot-treating with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol. For more widespread pest issues, an application of insecticidal soap is effective.

Root rot is a primary issue, resulting from overwatering and poorly draining soil. Signs include mushy, blackened stems and yellowing, soft leaves that drop from the plant. To fix this, unpot the plant, trim away any dead or mushy roots with a sterile tool, and repot it in fresh, dry soil.

Etiolation, or leggy growth, is characterized by stretched-out stems with wide spacing between the leaves, indicating the plant is not receiving enough light. To resolve this, move it to a location with brighter, indirect sunlight. Sudden leaf drop can also be a sign of stress from overwatering, underwatering, or abrupt temperature changes.

Toxicity Information

Cotyledon pendens is toxic if ingested. All parts of the plant are poisonous to pets and humans, with ingestion leading to symptoms like vomiting and gastrointestinal upset. To ensure safety, place the plant in a location that is inaccessible to children and pets.