Pussy Ears (Cyanotis somaliensis)

Pussy Ears Plant Features

Pussy ears, also called kitten ears, is a delightful, easy-care houseplant. Related to inch plants (and sometimes classified as Tradescantia somaliensis), this unusual houseplant grows well in hanging baskets. Offers fuzzy green leaves, pussy ears adds 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. 

Because it has a creeping or trailing habit, pussy ears is excellent in hanging planters or tall containers. But, you can also grow it in a low, shallow pot and let it grow horizontally on a tabletop, mantle, desk, or other surface to great effect. 

A relatively small plant, pussy ears is ideal on its own or in terrariums or indoor fairy gardens. 

Pussy Ears Questions?
If you have any questions about this plant, feel free to send us an email. 

Pussy Ears Growing Instructions

Grow pussy ears in a bright spot for the happiest plant -- it likes high light, but tolerates medium light. When pussy ears doesn't get enough light, it can get leggy, with long stems between the leaves.

If your plant grows too large or becomes too leggy, you can prune pussy ears without hurting it. Cut it back it at any time of year. By cutting it back, you'll encourage pussy ears to become a fuller or bushier plant. 

Water pussy ears when the top inch or so of the potting mix is dry. Take care not to let the potting mix stay wet or soggy for extended periods; if the roots stay too wet, this plant can rot. 

If you wish to fertilize your pussy ears plant, you can do so in spring and summer (let the plant rest during the cooler, darker months of autumn and winter). You can use any general-purpose houseplant fertilizer; just be sure to follow the directions on the product packaging. Brands formulate their fertilizers differently, so application rates and frequencies vary. 

Note: Pussy ears is not intended for human or animal consumption. 

  • Water

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Indoors: High light

    Indoors: Medium light

  • Colors

    Green

  • Special Features

    Purifies the air

Complement your Pussy Ears

Hoya
Wax plant is another fantastic plant for hanging baskets that doesn't need a lot of water and likes bright light.