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Products > Cotyledon orbiculata 'Greytown Spoons'
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| Category: Succulent |
| Family: Crassulaceae (Stonecrops) |
| Origin: South Africa (Africa) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Red/Purple Foliage: Yes |
| Flower Color: Orange |
| Bloomtime: Summer |
| Height: 2-3 feet |
| Width: 2-3 feet |
| Exposure: Cool Sun/Light Shade |
| Seaside: Yes |
| Drought Tolerant: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 25-30° F |
| May be Poisonous (More Info): Yes |
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Cotyledon orbiculata 'Greytown Spoons'. A succulent shrub to 2 to 3 feet tall with 5 to 6 inch long 3/4 inch wide dark maroon-margined leaves that expand towards the slightly scalloped tip and are guttered along the top surface. Orange bell-shaped flowers dangle from flower stalks that rise above the foliage in the summer. Best in full coastal sun or light shade with occasional summer watering. Hardy to 25-30 degrees Tolerates coastal conditions and drought. A good container plant. This plant is from seed given to us by Brian Kemble of the Ruth Bancroft Garden and originated from a plant in cultivation near the town of Greytown in Natal, South Africa. The seedlings were quite variable and we have selected several forms with this form selected for its unusual leaves that are narrower toward the base and expand somewhat like a scalloped spoon near the tip. Although there has not been a recorded incident of Cotyledon orbiculata being poisonous to humans there have been cases in California where sheep have died when fed Cotyledon orbiculata. In South Africa, the disease caused by eating these plants, called cotyledonosis, has poisoned sheep and goats but rarely other animals. The meat of animals killed by cotyledonosis also remains toxic. The reason for this name for the genus is a complicated story. The plant, Wall Pennywort or Navelwort, (Umbilicus rupestris) was previously included in the genus. In medieval times, and in homeopathic medicine this plant was/is commonly known as Cotyledon so this name stuck with the genus, even though the plant it was named for did not. The name originated from the Greek word 'kotyledon' or 'kotyle' meaning "cupped", "hollowed" or "a cavity". The specific epithet is Latin meaning "round and flat" or "disk-shaped" in reference to the typical leaf shape of the species.
This description of this plant is based on our research and our observations of it growing at the nursery, in our own garden and in other gardens. We always appreciate receiving feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or have additional cultural tips that would aid others growing Cotyledon orbiculata 'Greytown Spoons' .
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