Cyanotis somaliensis (Kitten ear plant)
The Cyanotis somaliensis is pronounced Sy-an-NOH-tiss Soh-mal-ee-en-sis. Commonly called Kitten ears Plant, Pussy ears or Furry Kitten Plant. This easy-care fuzzy houseplant is native to Somalia, hence the name “somaliensis’.
Kitten ears belongs to the Commelinaceae family and is related to inch plants. In fact, sometimes it is classified as Tradescantia somaliensis or tradescantia kitten ears.
Pussy ears is an unusual houseplant. She grows well in hanging baskets or tall containers. It can also be grown it in a low, shallow pot and while growing horizontally on a tabletop or mantle. This relatively small plant is ideal on its own, or in terrariums or indoor fairy gardens. A spreading perennial with oblong-linear, pointed, arching, deep olive-green leaves covered with white, whisker-like hairs.
Kitten Ears Plant Care
Grow Pussy ears prefers a bright location. She does best high light, but tolerates medium light. In fact, it even does well as a ground cover in shadier spots. When pussy ears do not get enough light, it can become leggy, with long spaces on the stem in between the leaves. She prefers temperatures from 50-95° F (10-35°C).
Cyanotis somaliensis Pruning
If your Pussy Ears grows too large or becomes too leggy, you can prune it easily without harm. In fact, you can prune it back at any time during the year. Additionally, by cutting it back, you’ll encourage the plant to become a fuller or bushier. While in colder climates, it may come back from the ground in spring.
Cyanotis somaliensis Water
Water Pussy ears when the top inch or so of the potting mix is dry. Make sure you water deeply enough for water to run out the drainage hole. Then, then wait for the soil to fully dry before watering again.
Be sure not to let the potting mix stay wet or soggy for extended periods. Specifically because they are susceptible to root rot.
Cyanotis somaliensis Fertilizer
Fertilize your Kitten ears plant in spring and summer with any general-purpose houseplant fertilizer. Follow the directions on the product packaging as application rates and frequencies vary by brand.
Cyanotis somaliensis Flowers
In summer look for sporadic, small, purplish-blue flowers with prominent gold stamens. They grow to about 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide. Kitten ears plants add a lot of texture to a collection of houseplants. Particularly if you pair it with coarser plants such as Hoya or ivy that have a very different leaf size or shape.
Kitten ears Propagation
Cyanotis somaliensis propagation can be anytime. In colder climates it is best to do so at the beginning of the growing season. Propagation is possible via stem cuttings or by plant division.
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