Synonyms:

Sedum orbiculatum
Cotyledon orbiculata var. dactylopsis
Cotyledon orbiculata var. oblonga
Cotyledon orbiculata var. orbiculata
Cotyledon orbiculata var. spuria

Habitat:

Cotyledon orbiculata var. oophylla is native to South Africa, thriving in the rocky landscapes and arid regions of the Western and Eastern Cape. Its natural habitat is characterized by well-drained soils and exposure to full sun or partial shade, conditions that this succulent has adapted to quite well.

Description:

This variety of Cotyledon orbiculata features thick, rounded leaves that are grayish-green in color, often with a reddish tint along the margins, which can become more pronounced with increased sunlight exposure. The leaves are typically about 5-8 cm in diameter, giving the plant a robust and fleshy appearance. Cotyledon orbiculata var. oophylla has a compact growth habit, usually reaching heights of up to 20 cm. During late winter to spring, it produces bell-shaped, orange to salmon-pink flowers on tall stems, which contrast beautifully against the foliage, adding a splash of color to the garden or indoor setting.

Cultivation:

This is a slow growing plant, easy to cultivate. The plant needs a full sunlight exposure but is recommended to avoid direct sun-light during the hottest periods. The plant does not like temperatures below 10°C so it needs to be placed indoors in the coldest periods. The soil should be mixed with pumice, clay and loam to allow for drainage and prevent root rot, as the plant is prone to it. Remember to use a perforated pot to drain excess water. Watering can be done regularly in spring and summer: during the vegetative period you can water the plant every 7 days, checking that the soil is completely dry before watering again. In winter you should stop the watering to allow the plant to enter dormancy. If you want a faster and lusher growth, you can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with specific fertilizers for succulents; stop fertilizing throughout the winter. If the pot becomes too small for the plant, you can repot it in a pot that is 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season with fresh new potting soil. Be careful to red spiders and mealybugs.

Propagation:

Propagation of Cotyledon orbiculata var. oophylla can be achieved through leaf cuttings or offsets. To propagate by leaf cuttings, gently twist a leaf from the stem, ensuring it’s a clean pull. Allow the leaf to callous over for a few days, then place it on top of well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots develop, and a new plant begins to grow. Offsets can be removed from the parent plant with a clean cut and repotted into their own container, following the same care guidelines as the mature plants.

Curiosity:

An interesting aspect of Cotyledon orbiculata var. oophylla is its use in traditional medicine in some cultures, where it’s believed to have various healing properties. However, it’s important to note that the plant contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested, so it should be handled with care, especially around pets and children. The unique appearance and easy care of Cotyledon orbiculata var. oophylla make it a popular choice for succulent collections, rock gardens, and as a striking container plant.

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