Genus · Crassulaceae
Cotyledon
2 species tracked in Horta’s catalog, and the named cultivars growers keep. Walk down to a species for its full care record, or into a cultivar for its traits and provenance.
Species in this genus
The ones growers meet most — each links to its own page.
Cotyledon orbiculata
Pig's Ear
Cotyledon orbiculata is a succulent subshrub from arid and seasonally dry regions of southern Africa, storing water in its thick, paddle-shaped leaves. Plant it in gritty, fast-draining mix and give bright direct light. Water deeply but infrequently, only once the soil has dried out completely through the pot; if in doubt, wait, as standing moisture rots the roots and stem.
Cotyledon tomentosa
Bear-paws
Cotyledon tomentosa is a fuzzy-leaved succulent subshrub from the Cape Provinces of South Africa, adapted to bright, dry, well-drained conditions. Grow it in gritty, fast-draining mix and give it the brightest spot you can, including some direct sun. Water deeply but infrequently, only once the soil has dried out completely and the plump leaves begin to feel slightly soft.
About the genus
A genus-level overview — shared traits, history, the botany that ties these plants together — is on its way. For now, the species and cultivars above and below carry the genus.
Kept true by its growers
Cotyledon keeps evolving — species move, cultivars appear, IDs get corrected. If you can place an unplaced plant or add a species we’re missing, the whole genus gets truer.
Overview derived from 2 tracked species · the contribute flow arrives with the next slice.