Cotyledon elisae is a compact, branching succulent shrublet endemic to a restricted area of South Africa's Western Cape. In its natural habitat around Schoemanspoort in the Gouritz River Valley, it grows among quartzitic sandstone cliffs and rocky terrain. Its small stature, glossy green foliage with contrasting red margins and colourful nodding flowers give it a distinctive appearance among the smaller members of the genus.
Compact growth and distinctive foliage
Cotyledon elisae develops into a densely branched shrublet reaching approximately 20 cm high. The fleshy leaves are obovate to oblanceolate, generally up to about 34 mm long and 14 mm wide, with a slightly convex surface. They are green to yellowish-green and characteristically glandular and sticky to the touch. Under good light, the upper leaf margins develop attractive reddish to deep red colouring, providing a strong contrast with the green foliage.
Orange-red bell-shaped flowers
Established plants produce nodding, bell-shaped flowers in shades of orange-red to red, carried above the foliage on branching inflorescences. The relatively large flowers and compact growth habit are characteristic of the species, and flowering can continue over an extended period under favourable conditions.
A distinctive South African species
The combination of compact branching growth, sticky glandular foliage and colourful flowers helps distinguish Cotyledon elisae from related species such as Cotyledon woodii. Its naturally restricted distribution and specialised rocky habitat also make it an interesting example of the diverse succulent flora of South Africa's Cape region.
Growing Cotyledon elisae
Grow in a free-draining succulent mix with plenty of bright light and good airflow. Strong light encourages compact growth and development of the characteristic red leaf margins, although some protection from intense Australian summer afternoon sun may be beneficial. Water thoroughly when required, then allow the growing medium to dry before watering again. Avoid prolonged wet conditions around the roots, particularly during cool weather.
Cotyledon elisae 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.
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Please Note:
- All plants are sent bare rooted with no pots and soil, or minimum soil only.
- Due to the drying process necessary for sending plants through the mail, plants may look slightly different than images shown on our website
- Some plants, may look wrinkled when they arrive, may be somewhat limp, or soft to the touch. This is normal as they have been dried out for for a number of days before shipping to avoid rotting in the mail.
- Succulents are very hardy plants and they will recover quickly, providing you unpack them as soon as you receive them follow some simple care instructions you will find with your order.
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