C. orbiculata is an extremely variable species that grows to approximately 1.3 m (4.3 ft) in height. It has gray-green leaves that can be up to 13 by 7 cm (5.1 by 2.8 in) with a white powdery substance on them that helps reflect sunlight and conserve water.
The shape of the leaves was thought to have a resemblance to a pig's ear, thus the common name.
This succulent plant has thick leaves which may vary from green to grey, often with a red line around the margin. Cotyledon orbiculata has five varieties, based on differences in leaf and flower shape. The variability of leaf size, shape and colour is also influenced by the immediate environment. Selected forms in cultivation have been given names such as 'Elk Horns' or 'Silver Waves'.
The bell-shaped flowers are small, usually less than 3 cm (1.2 in) in length, and droop from the top of a 60 cm (24 in) tall stalk. The flowers are usually orange-red but yellow varieties also exist.
The plant can reproduce by a leaf cutting, which will take root and spawn a new plant when placed on the humid ground, but it shouldn't be too wet, as it may rot.
Native to South Africa, it is popular in gardens in many countries. In the wild, it grows naturally in rocky outcrops in grassy shrubland and the Karoo region. In New Zealand, it is considered an invasive plant and is listed on the National Pest Plant Accord.
what is the difference between plants with withe powdery-covered leaves and those with glossy-green, red margin leaves? form? location, sun expsition?
ReplyDeleteGood question, though I don't know well enough to answer.
DeleteIt could be there's several cultivars of the same species, or they develop powdery white leaves due to environmental factors. Generally, succulent plants from my experience will develop a less white appearance when grown in fertile moist soil, while those growing in harsher conditions will develop a different appearance (more reddish for example.)