How to grow pig ear
Overview
Pig ear (Cotyledon orbiculata) is a succulent herbaceous perennial grown for its rounded, grey-green leaves and orange bell-shaped flowers. It thrives in dry, sunny positions and is ideal for filling gaps in waterwise gardens or rockeries.
Soil Preparation
Pig ear requires a free-draining soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Mix coarse sand or perlite into standard potting mix to improve drainage. Avoid heavy clay or water-retentive soils; if planting in the ground, raise the bed by 10–15 cm to ensure runoff.
Growing Guide
Plant pig ear in full sun in a free-draining mix of sand and loam or use a quality cactus/succulent potting mix. Space plants 30–40 cm apart to allow for clump spread. In cool temperate zones, wait until after the last frost to plant outdoors; in Mediterranean and subtropical areas, plant in autumn to avoid summer heat stress. Water only when the soil is completely dry to the touch, and avoid wetting the leaves to prevent rot.
Care
Feed sparingly with a low-nitrogen succulent fertiliser once in early spring. Prune off spent flower stems after blooming and remove any rotting or dead leaves to maintain airflow. Repot every 2–3 years if pot-bound, refreshing the soil mix.
Companion Planting
Pair pig ear with other drought-tolerant succulents like aloes, agaves, and echeveria for a cohesive dry-garden look. Avoid planting near moisture-loving ferns or impatiens, as they will require conflicting watering regimes.
Common Pests & Risks
Mealybugs can hide in leaf axils; treat with a spot of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton bud. Fungal rot appears as black spots on leaves or stem base—remove affected parts immediately and reduce watering. Scale insects may also occur; scrape off or use neem oil.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage—let soil dry out completely. Brown leaf edges: sunburn or salt buildup—move to partial shade or flush soil. Soft, mushy stems: root rot from excess moisture—cut back watering and repot in dry mix. White cottony clusters: mealybug—treat with alcohol or insecticidal soap. Leggy growth: insufficient light—move to brighter position.