Cotyledon

Cotyledon Succulent

Cotyledon is a genus that includes numerous varieties of perennial shrubby leaf and stem succulents native to Southern Africa and the Arabian peninsula. Cotyledon succulents usually have tubular orange or salmon pink flowers with curled petal tips that bloom in the summer.

Cotyledons are small adorable plants to medium-sized shrubs to 2 meters. All have succulent leaves and thickened stems. Cotyledon's name comes from the first two leaves that a dicotyledonous plant seed has after germination. That appears as opposite large fleshy rounded leaves. Hardy drought tolerant, easy to grow outdoors or as container plants. Cotyledon is a great succulent for beginner growers.

Tips For Cotyledon Growth and Care

Cotyledon is relatively easy to care for. They are quite hardy as long as their basic needs are met. They can be grown indoors with ease as well as outdoors, provided the climate is warm enough.

Light

Due to the protective layer of pruinose, Cotyledon loves to be in partial to full sun, prefers shade in the summer, however direct sunlight could cause sunburn. When grown indoors, they thrive on bright, indirect light. 

Soil

We recommend using a cactus mix or very fast-draining potting soil. For garden plantings, the ideal soil is sandy and well-drained soil.

Most species of Cotyledon are quite adaptable and can grow in most types of containers. The important feature of a pot to consider is drainage to keep them happy and healthy.

Water

Water thoroughly only when the soil is dry to the touch (about every 2 weeks). Never let your succulents sit in water and do NOT water on the leaves. Don't forget to learn how to water your succulents the right way.

You can water more often if you live in areas with hot weather because your soil will dry out faster. Reduce watering in winter because the succulent can lose its roots if the soil stays cold and wet for an extended amount of time.

How do cotyledons propagate?

The best way to propagate your Cotyledon is by cuttings or leaves. Cuttings can be rooted wherever you’d like them to grow, and leaves can be propagated in the soil and later transplanted.

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