A robust shrubby succulent with broad rounded grey-white leaves rimmed in red, bearing tall stems of nodding orange bell flowers loved by sunbirds. A tough, sculptural water-wise feature.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 1 m H × 80 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Pig's Ear
Botanically, Cotyledon orbiculata is a moderate-growing succulent in the Crassulaceae family. It reaches around 1 m tall and 80 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Orange flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Pig's Ear does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Pig's Ear is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Pig's Ear after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Pig's Ear in the garden
Pig's Ear earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Pig's Ear with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Pig's Ear
Plant Sale lists Pig's Ear as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.