Cyanotis somaliensis
Cyanotis somaliensis
Pussy Ears
◆
Taxonomy
Family Commelinaceae · Genus Cyanotis
Description
Cyanotis somaliensis, often called Pussy Ears, is a charming, fuzzy-leaved trailer with purple-tinged undersides. It thrives in bright light, stays compact and tidy with occasional pinching, and rewards you with tiny violet-blue blooms. A cozy, low-fuss choice for shelves and hanging baskets.
Common Names
Pussy EarsKitten EarsFurry Kitten EarSomali Pussy Ears
Context
nativeRegion
Somalia (Horn of Africa)
usdaZones
10–12 (frost-free)
companionPlants
Hoya carnosa, Peperomia incana, Callisia repens, Pilea glauca, Tradescantia sillamontana
culturalUses
Ornamental houseplant and hanging-basket specimen; used as a drought-tolerant groundcover in frost-free climates.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light; 1–3 hours of gentle morning sun is fine. Avoid harsh midday sun that can scorch leaves.
WateringWater when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry. Reduce in winter; avoid waterlogged soil to prevent rot.
SoilLoose, fast-draining mix (e.g., 2 parts potting mix, 1 part perlite/pumice, 1 part fine bark or a cactus mix amended with perlite).
FertilizerBalanced liquid fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength monthly in spring–fall; pause in winter.
HumidityAverage home humidity (30–50%) is fine; ensure airflow if humidity is high to prevent rot.
TemperatureIdeal 65–85°F (18–29°C); keep above 55°F (13°C) and protect from drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitLow, mat-forming, and trailing; good for hanging baskets or as a cascading shelf plant.
Mature Size6–10 in tall, 12–24+ in spread (15–25 cm tall, 30–60+ cm spread).
Growth RateModerate; faster in warm, bright conditions.
BloomingLate spring through fall; small, violet-blue three-petaled flowers appear intermittently.
DormancyMild winter slowdown with reduced watering needs (semi-dormant).
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings, Division, Tip layering
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch tips to promote branching; trim leggy stems and spent blooms. Rejuvenate with a modest cutback in spring if needed.
RepottingEvery 1–2 years in spring when rootbound; prefers a shallow, wide pot and fresh, airy mix. Divide if clumps thicken.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Overwatering invites root rot and fungal issues; strong sun can scorch leaves.
ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to people and pets; sap may cause mild skin irritation, and ingestion can cause minor GI upset.
Recent Public Plants
No public plants yet.