Chinese Hat Plant
kalanchoe crenata
Also known as: ["Cathedral Bells","Chinese Hat Plant"]
Overview
A succulent plant with distinctive bell-shaped or hat-like flowers and fleshy, scalloped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe crenata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, partially shaded spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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 mix like cactus 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 removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in dormant periods; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme cold or heat.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
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, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
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
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting leaves; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate 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 root rot due to reduced water uptake in cold, damp soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid overwatering; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to water loss.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicKalanchoe crenata is toxic to cats, containing cardiac glycosides that can lead to severe cardiac issues, electrolyte disturbances, and other systemic effects. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can be life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicKalanchoe crenata is toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardiac glycosides, which can cause severe cardiac arrhythmias, electrolyte imbalances, and other systemic effects. The toxicity can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe crenata contains cardiac glycosides, which can affect the heart and electrolyte balance when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's toxicity is generally mild to moderate for humans, but caution is advised due to potential cardiac effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe crenata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe crenata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Kalanchoe crenata require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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