With the growing popularity of live succulents in recent years, some ornamental plant enthusiasts have shifted their focus to cultivating pretty potted succulents. These plants are relatively low-maintenance compared to most other plants. However, the blossoming of succulents is often viewed as a sign of death, hence the term "death bloom."

That is correct for certain genera, such as Rosularia succulents. However, there are exceptions. Today, I'd like to introduce you to a stunning trailing succulent: Cotyledon pendens. This variety is popular worldwide due to its unique plump leaves, pleasant fragrance, easy-to-branch features, adorable colors, and abundant flowers.

The Flowers of Cotyledon Pendens

Cotyledon Pendens typically blooms in late spring to early summer. It starts as small green buds that gradually turn red. Eventually, the buds open up and arch upward, and some liken the blossoms to a collection of charming little bells. Beyond its captivating blooms, this succulent boasts a distinctive lemon fragrance, particularly potent during the flowering period, accompanied by the sweet scent of nectar.

Numerous individuals seem enthusiastic about promoting the blooming of this particular variety. The discussions surrounding this topic are comparable to those regarding the flowering of a Christmas cactus. With proper care, Cotyledon pendens won't die after flowering, allowing you to enjoy its flowering beauty every year.

You may wonder: How to promote Christmas cacti bloom faster and ongoing?

1. Outdoor Care or Ample Light

Cotyledon Pendens thrives in abundant light, making it ideal for outdoor growth during spring and fall. In hot summer temperatures exceeding 35°C/95℉, provide shade in the afternoon. The rich sunlight not only promotes flowering but also enhances the plant's colors, as the red-tipped leaves complement the orange blossoms, adding to the plant's allure. For indoor care, place it on a sunny windowsill with at least 10 hours of indirect sunlight, rotating the pot periodically for even sun exposure.

2. Regular Fertilization

To ensure that your Cotyledon pendens plant produces vibrant and lush blooms, it is important to provide it with high levels of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in relation to nitrogen (N). During the spring and fall months, it is recommended to fertilize the plant twice a month with diluted liquid fertilizer, which should be added to the water at a specific ratio before being applied directly to the soil.

Keep feeding the plant until all flower buds have bloomed, resulting in healthier foliage and more aesthetically pleasing flowers. Once the temperature drops below 50℉ (10℃), it is advisable to stop fertilizing the plant.

You may wonder: How to fertilize succulents scientifically?

3. Water Cotyledon Pendens Adequately

Ensuring Cotyledon Pendens is well-hydrated doesn't mean watering it daily. These succulents grow rapidly, transforming from pruned cuttings to full pots in a year. Hence, they require more water during their growth to promote plump foliage and strong root systems, especially in spring and fall. Water outdoor plants once a week and indoor plants when the soil is completely dry.

While watering Cotyledon Pendens, apply bottom watering and let the dry soil absorb water from the bottom drainage holes, or use a long-neck water bottle to water the soil along the inner edge of the flower pot.

4. Regular Pruning

Cotyledon pendens produce numerous flower pedicels before blooming. Some should be removed to maintain a balanced plant size and nutrient supply. Younger Cotyledon pendens succulents should have most of the pedicels trimmed, leaving only 2 or 3. Otherwise, the pedicels will consume too many nutrients, causing the plant to become weak.

Regular pruning promotes bushier growth, removing weak branches to concentrate energy on robust ones. Additionally, pruning the stems and flowers can improve plant shape and ornamental value.

5. Optimal Flowering Temperature

The ideal flowering temperature range is generally considered to be 15-25°C/59-77℉. Flowering might be challenging in hot summers or cold winters. Cotyledon Pendens is sensitive to cold; move it indoors if temperatures drop below 5°C/41℉ to prevent frost damage.

6. Larger Pots for Greater Growth

Cotyledon Pendens is vigorous, so opt for succulent pots larger than 4 inches if you anticipate substantial growth. Hanging pots are a classic choice, allowing the succulent to trail as it grows. For windowsills or tabletops, choose taller pots to provide more height for the succulent to cascade.

7. Protect from Birds and Animals

Outdoor care requires protection against birds and other animals, especially birds that may mistake Cotyledon Pendens for a tasty treat. Notably, Cotyledon Pendens is considered toxic, posing a potential hazard to animals.

8. Exercise Patience

When everyone else's Cotyledon Pendens is in full bloom, patience is key. Older plants typically bloom faster and produce more flowers. With the right conditions, your Cotyledon Pendens will undoubtedly blossom, leaving you in awe.

Have your Cotyledon Pendens bloomed yet? Capture its beauty in a photo and share it on social media, tagging The Next Gardener for the world to admire.