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The species in the genus Cotyledon range from South
Africa to Arabia. Many of the species that used to be
included have been moved to the genus Tylecodon. This
group includes a large variety of distinctive forms and
sizes. They can be used in landscaping in climates that
are mostly frostless, and are interesting plants in
raised beds or containers.
The Cotyledon species plants differ a lot in the shape
and color of the leaves. These are succulent shrubs or
semi-shrubs with smooth, fleshy leaves. Cotyledons can be
divided into two groups. One group consists of evergreen
plants with a summer growing period. The other group is
made up of deciduous plants. The second group grows
during our winter, and sheds its leaves during our summer.
The remaining species have a very varied appearance, are
generally small succulent shrubs.
The long lasting flowers are all roughly the same shape
in the different Cotyledon species. The flowers form
tubular cups with spreading free lobes.
Hardiness zones 8-10, (-10°C/15°F, 4°C/40°F).
Cotyledons should be kept in a sunny position. Follow
general succulent watering procedures. Be careful of over-watering
when Cotyledons are deciduous. Use a well-drained soil
mix.
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