How to Grow Pig's Ear
Pig's Ear
Cotyledon orbiculata
succulentCotyledon orbiculata is a tender succulent shrub native to South Africa, prized for its distinctive fleshy, rounded leaves with reddish or bronze-tinted edges. It produces striking tubular flowers in shades of orange and red that attract pollinators. This drought-tolerant plant is popular in xeriscaping and container gardening.
When should you plant Pig's Ear in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Pig's Ear timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Pig's Ear
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Pig's Ear
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pig's Ear dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grown as a tender annual or houseplant in cooler zones
Sign up free to see if Pig's Ear grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Pig's Ear timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny rosette of rounded leaves emerges; plants are delicate and susceptible to damping off
Provide bright light, minimal water (soil just barely moist), excellent drainage, and warm temperatures (70-75°F). Avoid overwatering.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops larger rosette; leaves thicken and become increasingly waxy; characteristic round leaf shape becomes pronounced
Allow soil to dry between waterings. Provide full sun for best leaf color development. Feed sparingly with diluted low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once monthly in growing season.
Maturation
12-24 monthsPlant grows into a shrubby form, 12-24 inches tall; leaves develop deeper coloring and reddish or bronze tints at edges
Maintain full sun exposure. Pinch back stems occasionally to encourage branching and bushier growth. Continue minimal watering and light feeding.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (spring to early summer)Terminal flower spikes emerge with tubular flowers in orange, red, or coral tones; flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and bees
Do not fertilize heavily during flowering. Maintain consistent but dry conditions. Flowers last several weeks; leave spent flowers if seeds are desired.
Post-Flowering & Dormancy
4-6 months (fall/winter)Flowers fade and seed pods develop (if pollinated); plant enters slower growth period in winter months
Reduce watering significantly. Move indoor if temperatures drop below 45°F. Minimal feeding. Plant may appear dormant but is conserving energy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Remove with cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
-
Ensure excellent drainage; reduce watering frequency; repot in fresh soil if roots are mushy; may require fungicide treatment
-
Scrape off by hand; apply neem oil or horticultural oil spray; isolate infested plants
-
Increase humidity slightly (but maintain good air circulation); spray with water; use miticide if severe
Uses
Drought-Tolerant Container Plant
HouseholdCotyledon orbiculata is excellent for pots, planters, and mixed succulent containers, requiring minimal maintenance and water. Its attractive foliage and striking flowers make it a low-effort indoor or outdoor accent plant. [source]
Edible Leaves (Traditional Use)
CulinaryIn South Africa, leaves are occasionally used in traditional cooking and can be eaten raw or cooked, with a mildly succulent, tangy flavor. However, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. [source]
Traditional Wound Healing
MedicinalHistorically used in South African traditional medicine, the fresh leaves are applied topically to minor cuts and wounds due to antimicrobial properties. Modern scientific validation is limited but traditional use is well-documented. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe vibrant tubular flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators, making it valuable in wildlife gardens. Provides nectar-rich blooms in spring and early summer. [source]
Propagation & Gardening Hobby
CraftCotyledon orbiculata is readily propagated from leaves and cuttings, making it ideal for plant propagation enthusiasts and gift-giving. A single leaf can generate a new plant, making it a rewarding beginner succulent. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental plant, not typically harvested for food. For seed collection, allow flowers to go to seed; collect dry seed pods in late summer. For propagation, take leaf or stem cuttings in spring or summer; allow cut ends to callus for 2-3 days before inserting into dry soil.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Cotyledon orbiculata is sometimes called 'Pig's Ear' due to the shape and texture of its rounded, fleshy leaves, which resemble a pig's ear
- 🌱 The plant's red or bronze leaf tints intensify under stress (such as drought or intense sun), a protective mechanism that is also valued by gardeners for enhanced ornamental appeal
- 🌱 Native to the arid regions of South Africa, this succulent has evolved to store water in its leaves and can survive weeks or months without watering, making it nearly impossible to kill through neglect
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Pig's Ear planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Pig's Ear seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Pig's Ear timeline →