Walking Kalanchoe
kalanchoe synsepala
Also known as: ["Walking Mother of Thousands","Bat's Wing Kalanchoe"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its unique vegetative propagation, where plantlets form along the edges of its leaves and drop to the ground to root.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe synsepala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, airy space or sheltered outdoor spot
- 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 waterlogged roots.
- 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 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
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 gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with added perlite or pumice
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 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings are more reliable for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain high humidity; use rooting hormone for better success.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; cut above a node; 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 after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging. 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. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in heat; stunted growth or blackened leaves in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe synsepala, which can lead to serious cardiac and gastrointestinal distress. Toxicity can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe synsepala can cause severe cardiac issues in dogs, including arrhythmias and potential heart failure. Even small amounts can be harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe synsepala contains cardiac glycosides, which can disrupt heart function when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally mild in humans but can be more pronounced in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe synsepala toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How does Kalanchoe synsepala propagate?
A: It propagates vegetatively by producing plantlets along the leaf edges that drop and root in the soil.
Q: What are the care requirements for Kalanchoe synsepala?
A: It requires bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering to avoid root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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