Pig's ear care guide
Cotyledon orbiculata
Also known as: Round-leafed navelwort
Pets and children
Considered toxic
All parts contain cardiac-glycoside-like toxins known to cause vomiting, weakness, and heart rhythm problems in dogs, cats, and livestock; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian, or a doctor for a child, if eaten.
How often to water Pig's ear
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 14 days
- In spring, water thoroughly a few days after the soil dries; from the rainy season to midsummer ease off to about twice a month, on cool evenings.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- Fall is a growing season: water well once the soil dries, about every 10 days, keeping water off the powdery leaves.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 3 weeks
- Keep it on the dry side in winter, with a light watering about every three weeks on a mild morning.
Light and placement for Pig's ear
A spring-fall grower that generally wants a bright, airy spot under the eaves: strong light keeps the powdery white leaves compact, with only light shade in midsummer and shelter from rain.
Overwintering Pig's ear
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
As a guide, move it to a bright window or deeper under the eaves when nights drop below about 3°C; kept dry and off frost it tolerates close to 0°C.
Fertilizing and repotting Pig's ear
Fertilizer
Feed sparingly: diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month in spring and fall, since too much makes the leaves large and loose and thins the bloom.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Pig's ear
- Rainy-season humidity rots the base and the leaves drop.
- Handling or rain strips the white bloom.
- In poor light the stems stretch and the leaves shrink.
Tips for growing Pig's ear
- Handle it by the pot so the powdery bloom stays intact.
- Propagate from stem cuttings after drying the cut a few days.
- The spring flower stalk carries dangling orange bells; cut it at the base when done.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
