Cotyledon - Campanulata

Cotyledon campanulata is a charming and somewhat less common succulent admired for its bell-shaped, often colorful flowers that dangle gracefully from slender stems. This delightful plant, belonging to the Crassulaceae family, offers a unique floral display that contrasts beautifully with its fleshy foliage, making it a sought-after addition for succulent enthusiasts who appreciate both interesting leaves and attractive blooms.
 
Key Features of Cotyledon campanulata
Fleshy Leaves: Features succulent, typically rounded to ovate leaves that can vary in color from green to grey-green, often with a powdery coating (farina).
Bell-Shaped Flowers: The most striking feature is its clusters of pendulous, bell-shaped flowers, which are usually orange to red and appear on slender, often arching stems.
Flowering Season: Typically blooms in the winter or spring months, providing a welcome splash of color during a time when many other succulents are less active.
Growth Habit: Can have a somewhat sprawling or branching growth habit, with stems that can become slightly woody with age.
Size: Generally remains a relatively small to medium-sized succulent, suitable for container gardening.
 
Care for Your Cotyledon campanulata
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to thrive and flower well. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun should be avoided to prevent leaf burn.
Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch, especially during the active growing and flowering seasons. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant summer months.
Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Healthy Plant
Removing Spent Flowers: Deadheading spent flower stalks can improve the plant's appearance and may encourage further blooming in some cases.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is usually required, mainly to remove any dead or leggy stems to maintain a more compact shape.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as mealybugs and aphids. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing and flowering seasons with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: A relatively easy method of propagation. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower and less reliable with Cotyledon campanulata. Select healthy, mature leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
Seeds: Propagation can also be done by seeds, although this method is slower and may require specific conditions for germination.
 
Cotyledon campanulata offers a delightful combination of attractive foliage and unique, bell-shaped flowers, making it a charming addition to any succulent collection. Its relatively straightforward care requirements and intriguing floral display make it a rewarding plant for enthusiasts who appreciate succulents with distinctive blooms.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.