Ceratophylla Kalanchoe
kalanchoe ceratophylla
Also known as: ["Air plant","Mother of Thousands"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy leaves and small, tubular flowers, native to Madagascar.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe ceratophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location or protected outdoor setting
- 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 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; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light to partial sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct hot sun; provide shade in peak summer.
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 potting mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with fresh mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations; avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation.
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 healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep medium 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; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or overgrown stems; shape for aesthetics.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; 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.
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; use a mix with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil stays wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently if soil dries quickly.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a 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
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe ceratophylla, which can lead to severe cardiac toxicity, including arrhythmias and heart failure. Even small amounts can be dangerous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe ceratophylla can cause significant cardiac issues in dogs, including arrhythmias and potential heart failure. The toxicity is more severe in smaller breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe ceratophylla contains cardiac glycosides, which can disrupt heart function when ingested in sufficient quantities. The effects are generally mild in humans but can be more pronounced in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe ceratophylla toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe ceratophylla?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Kalanchoe ceratophylla require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light to part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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