Cotyledon Ladismithiensis (Cotyledon Tomentosa subsp. ladismithiensis)

Having a cacti garden wasn’t an easy task. Different plants have different needs; therefore, more attention and care are required. Succulents are one of the most exciting and ever-evolving types of plants. It has different variations and originates from other places. For this article, we will learn more about another type of succulent, Cotyledon Ladismithiensis. Ready your green thumb and prepare to plant this special type of plant. Have a better understanding of how this type of plant thrives and survives its environment.

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Origin and Features Of Cotyledon Ladismithiensis

Cotyledon Ladismithiensis originate from South Africa and is commonly known as “Bear’s Paw” because of its elliptical shape. It is an evergreen succulent that comes from the Crassulaceae family. This type of rare succulent is a small plant with small round leaves with yellow lines and small red teeth on its edges. The leaf shape gave Cotyledon Ladismithiensis a furry appearance.

Cotyledon Ladismithiensis typically grows on rocky land and on cliffs or other places with porous soil perfect for drainage. It is a slow-growing plant and usually thrives up to 1 meter with proper care. Usually, this plant is dormant during winter. It can bloom into a bright orange hue from winter to spring, with its bell-shaped flower looking very vibrant and refreshing.

Generally, this succulent is considered non-toxic, but some studies mentioned that it could be mildly toxic for pets and even children. Cotyledon Ladismithiensis can be both an outdoor and indoor plant, as long as you take note that you can’t leave it outside during the winter season. This plant is cold and hardy in zones 9b to 11b, so it is better to keep it as a houseplant during winter.

Care Tips

Ideal Sunlight

It is advisable to grow Cotyledon Ladismithiensis in bright, indirect light or on a partially lit window. Ideally, 6 hours of straight sunlight should be given to this plant for it to thrive.

Humidity and Temperature

The ideal temperature for this plant is between 20 to 27 degrees Celsius in the daytime and 10 to 21 degrees at night. Cotyledon Ladismithiensis is cold and hardy in zones 9b to 11b, so it is better to keep it as a houseplant during winter. During winter, extra precautions should be taken as the plant can lose its roots if the soil turns too cold and wet for an extended period.

Watering Requirements

This plant requires deep watering during summer and regular watering during its growing season. Just like how you water other succulents, it is necessary to make sure that the roots are dry after watering to avoid overwatering. The soak and drain method is recommended to ensure that you water your plants correctly. To follow this method, bring the plant to the sink and soak it afterward and let it drain. Cotyledon Ladismithiensis may need watering once the top 1-2 inches of the soil above is already dry

Soil Requirements

This plant requires a well-draining soil mixture as its root is prone to rot due to poor drainage and overwatering. You may use a succulent mixture available at your local garden center or create your mixture by combining perlite, sand, and vermiculite.

Fertilizer

Regarding fertilizing Cotyledon Ladismithiensis, it is recommended to fertilize it once a month during the regular season but skip it during the winter season. Feed your plant a light balanced all-purpose water-soluble succulent fertilizer. Feeding might not be required, but it helps ensure that your plant gets enough nutrients.

Pruning

Generally, Cotyledon Ladismithiensis is an easy-to-grow plant. It doesn’t need much at all and is relatively hard to kill. However, pruning is crucial among the few requirements for your plant to thrive. Pruning helps maintain proper air circulation to prevent fungus and other diseases. Gently remove the older or dead leaves or stems to make room for new ones to grow. Don’t forget to be conscious of pruning your Cotyledon Ladismithiensis. Overdoing it is not healthy for your plant.

Pests and Diseases

Take note that your Cotyledon Ladismithiensis is a delicate plant. It is important to be mindful of plant diseases and insects such as fungal disease due to overwatering, mealybugs, and spider mites that might affect the growth of Cotyledon Ladismithiensis. Mealybugs are sap-sucking insects and can immediately damage your plant. To check if spider mites attack your Cotyledon Ladismithiensis, check if any parts of the plant are turning yellow or brown and wilted. Also, ensure you avoid overwatering your Cotyledon Ladismithiensis as it is prone to pests and diseases.

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How to Propagate Cotyledon Ladismithiensis

Cotyledon Ladismithiensis can be propagated from cuttings or thru seeds. Stem-cutting works best, but leaf-cutting also works.

The leaf-cutting method is a harder way to propagate because leaves can have so much water in them. It is done by twisting the leaf in the stem area to keep it intact. Then you have to allow the leaf to be callous for days before planting on the soil, and you may also apply a rooting powder to help the growth of your newly propagated Cotyledon Ladismithiensis. Ensure that you have a clean, preferably sterile knife when doing any cutting methods.

For propagating through the seeds, sow the seeds on well-drained soil and apply enough sunlight.

In Conclusion

All in all, we learned that Cotyledon Ladismithiensis is such a wonderful succulent type. Different types of plants require different types of love and care. Succulents are interesting plants with variety and exciting looks, flowers, origin, and propagation. Cotyledon Ladismithiensis has an exciting feature that will surely capture any plant lover. Its elliptical leaves with red teeth on its edge gave the plant character.

Cotyledon Ladismithiensis requires extra care during the winter season as it can’t survive outdoor during this time. Like almost all succulents, overwatering, diseases, and insects are just some of the few challenges in growing this plant.

We hope that with this article, you were able to learn and appreciate more about Cotyledon Ladismithiensis. Next time you decide to buy or even try gardening, may you identify and consider this plant as your next plant baby.