Botanical Name: Cotyledon orbiculata var. flanaganii
Common Names: Pig’s Ear (Narrow Form), Flanagan’s Cotyledon, Narrow Leaf Pig’s Ear, Silver Cotyledon
📌 Product Description
Cotyledon orbiculata var. flanaganii is a compact, sculptural succulent recognised for its elongated, cylindrical blue-grey leaves edged with fine red margins. Unlike the broader “Pig’s Ear” forms, this variety features slender finger-like foliage that creates a refined, architectural appearance.
The powdery silvery coating enhances its cool-toned colour, while sun exposure intensifies the red tips. Mature plants produce tall flower stalks bearing clusters of tubular orange to coral bell-shaped flowers, adding seasonal interest.
A hardy, drought-tolerant succulent well suited to South African water-wise gardens and container displays.
📏 Size When Fully Grown
Height: 30 – 60 cm
Spread: 30 – 50 cm
Flower Stalk: Up to 60 cm tall
Growth Habit: Compact, shrubby succulent
Growth Rate: Moderate
🌱 Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to light partial shade (best colour in bright light)
Soil: Well-draining sandy or succulent mix
Water:
Water moderately during establishment
Allow soil to dry between watering
Drought-tolerant once established
Avoid waterlogged conditions
Feeding: Light compost application in spring
Maintenance:
Remove old leaves for neat appearance
Protect from excessive winter rainfall
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot
🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Spring or early autumn
Growing Season: Spring and summer
Flowering Season: Late winter to spring
Climate Suitability: Ideal for dry inland and coastal regions
Frost Tolerance: Tolerates light frost; protect in heavy frost areas
🌼 Additional Benefits
Striking red-edged foliage
Drought-resistant
Low-maintenance
Attractive winter to spring flowers
Excellent container specimen
Indigenous to Southern Africa
🌿 Ideal Uses
✔ Water-wise gardens
✔ Rock gardens
✔ Mixed succulent beds
✔ Decorative pots
✔ Coastal gardens
✔ Feature plant in modern landscapes