Cotyledon pendens is a rare succulent much-branched shrublet differentiated from other Cotyledon by the thin, hanging shoots up to 60 cm long and the inflorescences with distinct, but short flower stalks.
Cotyledon pendens grows in a predominantly summer rainfall region on south-facing shale cliffs firmly-rooted in crevices forming drooping mats (cliff hanger). The drooping stems will root where they come in contact with any crevice, establishing new clones. The summers are hot, winters cooler, dry and without frost. Rainfall occurs mainly during summer and ranges between 1000–1250 mm (mainly thunder-showers, October to May). The grey-green succulent leaves, covered with powdery bloom, are an adaptation to its dry habitat, the leaf margin is an attractive reddish colour. Cotyledon pendens has eye-catching orange-red bell-shaped flowers produced at the ends of the branches. It is one of the lesser known cotyledons.
It is a very dry-tolerant plant. Water regularly in the growing season, but avoid water-logging and let dry between waterings. Water with caution in winter, as the plant can lose its roots if the soil stays cold and wet for extended periods. If grown in a container, bottom watering by immersing the container is recommended. It must have very dry atmosphere.
Does well in sun, but can handle some shade, too. In shade the leaves colour will remain more green, while in harsh full sun conditions the foliage can develop a grey- green powdery bloom. In summer keep cool and provide some shelter from direct sun during the hottest hours. It can be sunburned if moved from shade/greenhouse into full sun too quickly. It tends to get really leggy in deep shade).
Feed it once or twice during the growing season with a fertilizer specifically formulated for cactus and succulents (poor in nitrogen), including all micro nutrients and trace elements diluted to ½ the strength recommended on the label.
Protect from frost to prevent scarring. It requires a minimum temperature of about 5°C, but will take a light frost and is hardy down to -5° C for short periods if it is in dry soil.
