Jewel of Desert
kalanchoe millotii
Also known as: ["Millot's Kalanchoe","Desert Jewel"]
Overview
A succulent plant with small, fleshy leaves that are green with a reddish tinge, forming a compact rosette shape.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe millotii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- 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: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a south-facing window with sheer curtains indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, stable conditions.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid overfertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy stems and spent flowers to maintain compact shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding foliage. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing to every 3–4 weeks in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in cold; yellowing or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown spots; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
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 contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer. Discontinue in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicKalanchoe millotii is toxic to cats, containing cardiac glycosides that can lead to severe cardiac dysfunction and electrolyte imbalances. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, which can result in life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicKalanchoe millotii is toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardiac glycosides. These compounds can cause severe cardiac issues, including arrhythmias and potentially fatal heart failure in dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe millotii contains cardiac glycosides, which can have mild toxic effects on humans if ingested. These compounds can disrupt normal heart function and electrolyte balance, leading to physiological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe millotii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe millotii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Kalanchoe millotii flower?
A: Yes, it produces small, star-shaped flowers, typically in shades of pink or orange, during the spring or summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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