Mother of Thousands
bryophyllum daigremontianum
Also known as: ["Alligator Plant","Devil's Backbone"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its distinctive leaf margins lined with plantlets, native to Madagascar.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Bryophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Bryophyllum daigremontianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or outdoor in sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct sun but prefers filtered light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun gradually; avoid intense midday sun; place near east or west-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial sun
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak sun hours; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining succulent or cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); thrives in warm conditions but can tolerate mild cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings (plantlets often form along leaf edges).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem or leaf.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use mature leaves for better success; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted leaves at the base; trim stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead leaves, check for pests, shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the 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; plantlets may need repotting sooner.
Checklist
Choose right pot, prepare 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 directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution; allow excess water to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; mix in compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid watering during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the bufadienolide cardiac glycosides present in Bryophyllum daigremontianum, which can result in severe cardiac and gastrointestinal toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bufadienolide cardiac glycosides in Bryophyllum daigremontianum can cause severe cardiac and gastrointestinal distress in dogs, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicBryophyllum daigremontianum contains daigremontianin and bryophillin, which are bufadienolide cardiac glycosides. These compounds can interfere with heart function and electrolyte balance, leading to serious physiological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bryophyllum daigremontianum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant reproduce?
A: It reproduces vegetatively through plantlets that form along the edges of its leaves.
Q: What are the care requirements for this plant?
A: It requires bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
