Dinosaur Plant, Donkey Ears, Life Plant
kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri
Also known as: ["Mother of Thousands","Alligator Plant"]
Overview
A succulent species known for its large, fleshy leaves with scalloped edges and distinctive reddish-purple spots.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location with indirect sunlight
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix like cactus or succulent soil with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; use fast-draining mix; avoid heavy garden soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme cold or heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; maintain humidity; use indirect light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back stems just above a leaf node; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh well-draining soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or pumice to improve drainage; mix in organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if in a hot environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter applications.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri, which can lead to severe cardiac dysfunction, electrolyte disturbances, and potentially fatal outcomes. Cats may also experience gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri can cause cardiac arrhythmias, gastrointestinal upset, and electrolyte imbalances due to cardiac glycosides. The effects can be particularly dangerous in small or sensitive breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicKalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri contains cardiac glycosides, which can disrupt heart function and electrolyte balance when ingested. The toxins interfere with sodium-potassium pumps in cells, leading to potentially severe cardiovascular effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can this plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright indirect light and is well-suited for indoor cultivation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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