Plant guide
コチレドン
Watering rhythm
Every 14–21 days
Cotyledon is a succulent native to South Africa, known for its thick, fleshy leaves. It's popular for its unique flowers and ease of care, making it a hardy plant that's great for beginners. It handles drought well and is very forgiving.
Cotyledon loves bright light. A sunny windowsill is ideal, though you'll want to shield it from intense direct sun during peak summer. It prefers temperatures between 10–25°C (50–77°F), and can survive winter as long as it stays above 5°C (41°F). Low humidity is fine.
Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.
Spring
Every 10–14 days
Summer
Every 12–16 days
Autumn
Every 14–18 days
Winter
Every 28–35 days
Water only after checking the soil. Stick your finger into the soil—if it's dry about 1–1.5 inches down, it's time to water. Since this is a succulent, it's better to err on the dry side. Always empty any water that pools in the saucer afterward.
Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves turning yellow | Overwatering is usually the culprit. Succulents are prone to root rot in humid or wet conditions. | Cut back on watering frequency and always check that the soil is truly dry before watering again. If root rot has already set in, consider repotting into fresh soil. |
| Leaves looking shriveled or wrinkled | The plant isn't getting enough water. This happens when it goes too long between waterings. | Check that the soil isn't completely bone-dry, then water thoroughly. After that, return to a regular watering schedule. |
| Stems getting long and spindly | Not enough light. In dim conditions, the plant stretches out searching for brighter spots. | Move it to a brighter location—ideally a sunny windowsill with direct light. |
| Spots or discoloration appearing on leaves | Often caused by moisture sitting on the leaves or cold temperatures. | Improve air circulation around the plant and remove any affected leaves. During winter, keep temperatures above 10°C (50°F). |
| Pests on the plant | Even indoors, humid or stuffy environments can attract pests like mealybugs. | Wipe off affected areas or rinse gently with water. For more severe infestations, consider using an insecticide. |
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