Cotyledon pendens, often called Cliff Cotyledon, is a striking succulent prized for its cascading habit and plump, fleshy foliage. Native to the rocky cliffs of South Africa, this plant naturally develops a trailing form, making it popular for hanging baskets and elevated containers. The light green leaves sometimes feature red tips when exposed to strong light and grow in pairs along the stems.
Essential Light and Temperature Needs
The ideal environment for Cotyledon pendens involves maximizing light exposure without risking sunburn. This succulent thrives in bright, indirect light but can handle a few hours of gentle direct sun, such as morning or late afternoon light. Placing the plant near a south or west-facing window often provides the necessary intensity. If the light is too intense, particularly hot midday sun, the leaves may scorch, showing brown or yellow spots.
A lack of sufficient light causes the plant to stretch out, a process known as etiolation, resulting in long, pale stems with widely spaced leaves. If indoor lighting is inadequate, a grow light can supplement natural light to maintain compact growth. The preferred temperature range for active growth is moderate, roughly between 18°C and 29°C (65–85°F). This warmth encourages development and flowering.
The plant can tolerate brief temperature fluctuations but must be protected from extreme cold. Temperatures consistently below 5°C (41°F) can lead to leaf drop or frost damage. Extreme heat over 32°C (90°F) can also cause stress, requiring shade and good air circulation during summer heat waves. Maintaining air movement around the foliage helps prevent fungal issues, as this succulent prefers moderately low humidity, typically between 40% and 55%.
Proper Watering and Substrate Selection
Mistakes in watering are the most common cause of decline in this succulent, requiring a specific “soak and dry” approach. When watering, apply water thoroughly until it drains freely from the pot’s bottom holes, ensuring the root ball is saturated. The soil must then be allowed to dry out completely before the next application. Dryness can be checked by inserting a finger or a wooden skewer deep into the soil.
An under-watered plant shows visual signs, such as wrinkled or puckered leaves, indicating it is drawing on stored moisture. Conversely, overwatering saturates the roots, leading to root rot and causing the fleshy leaves to turn soft, translucent, and fall off. During the plant’s natural dormancy in winter or hot summer months, reduce watering frequency significantly to prevent rot.
The container and soil must facilitate rapid drainage. A pot with multiple drainage holes is non-negotiable, and terra cotta materials help wick away excess moisture. The substrate should be a porous mix, far grittier than standard potting soil, to prevent compaction and moisture retention. Use a succulent or cactus mix combined with inorganic components like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand.
Fertilization is a minor part of the care routine and should only occur when the plant is actively growing in spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble succulent fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-5 or 10-10-10 ratio), diluted to half or quarter strength. Apply this diluted solution once every four to six weeks during the growing season. Discontinue feeding entirely in the fall and winter when growth slows down.
Pruning and Propagation Methods
Pruning serves several purposes for maintaining the health and aesthetic of the trailing succulent. Removing dead, damaged, or shriveled leaves and stems helps prevent disease and pests. Selective pruning also encourages the plant to branch out, resulting in a denser, bushier appearance.
The trailing stems can be cut back to maintain a desired length or shape using clean, sterilized shears. Pruning is also the primary solution for correcting etiolated growth, identified by long, sparse sections of stem. Healthy stem sections removed during pruning are suited for propagation, turning maintenance into multiplication.
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method for creating new plants, as leaf cuttings are challenging for this species. Cut a healthy stem segment, about 7 to 10 centimeters long, and leave it in a dry location for several days to form a protective callous over the wound. This callousing step prevents the cutting from rotting once introduced to the soil.
Once the cut end is dry, insert the stem into a container filled with the same fast-draining, dry succulent substrate used for the mother plant. Place the cutting in bright, indirect light, and withhold watering until new roots begin to form, which can take several weeks. After roots are established, slowly introduce a regular watering schedule to encourage growth.