Cotyledon 'Pendens' variegata

Cotyledon 'Pendens' variegata is a beautifully variegated form of Cotyledon pendens, combining plump, powdery foliage with a naturally cascading growth habit. Its leaves develop an attractive mixture of blue-green, lime, cream and ivory, often gaining soft pink to rose tones around the margins under suitable seasonal and growing conditions.

Variegated foliage and cascading growth

The thick, fleshy leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along slender branching stems. Variegation can differ considerably between individual leaves, from fine cream markings to broad pale sections contrasting strongly with the greener portions of the foliage. The naturally powdery surface softens these colours and gives established plants an attractive pastel appearance.

As the stems lengthen they gradually become pendent, making this an especially interesting succulent for raised pots and hanging containers. Established plants can develop numerous branching stems, eventually creating a dense cascade of foliage.

A remarkable cliff-dwelling species

Cotyledon pendens, commonly known as Cliff Cotyledon, is native to a remarkably restricted area of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. The species is known from sheer cliffs along the Mbashe River, where plants grow from rock crevices and form hanging mats down steep cliff faces. SANBI classifies the species as Rare because of this highly localised natural distribution.

The species was formally named only in 2003. Its name pendens refers directly to its characteristic hanging growth, an adaptation that is retained particularly well in cultivation. Stems can also form roots where they make suitable contact with the growing medium, helping established plants spread and branch.

Orange-red bell-shaped flowers

Established Cotyledon pendens can produce attractive pendent flowers towards the ends of the branches. The flowers are bell-shaped and orange-red, providing a striking contrast against the pale succulent foliage. In its South African habitat these conspicuous flowers are pollinated by sunbirds.

Growing Cotyledon 'Pendens' variegata

Grow in a free-draining succulent mix and provide plenty of bright light to maintain compact growth and good variegation. Some direct sun can encourage stronger colouring, although the cream sections of variegated foliage can be more susceptible to scorching and plants should be acclimatised gradually before exposure to intense Australian summer sun.

Water thoroughly when required, allowing the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings, and avoid prolonged wet conditions around the roots. Protect from significant frost. The trailing stems can be allowed to cascade naturally or selectively trimmed to encourage a fuller, more branched plant.

Cotyledon 'Pendens' variegata, plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same  or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.  Please select preferred size from drop down menu above "Add to Cart" button.