Coral Plant
kleinia cephalophora
Also known as: ["Senecio cephalophorus"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy, cylindrical stems and small, green leaves, often cultivated for its ornamental value.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Kleinia |
| Botanical Name: | Kleinia cephalophora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, container, or xeriscaped area
- 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
- 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: Light to moderate
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 near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water less in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch 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 (60–70%), indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pot, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; maintain humidity; use sterile tools.
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 maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot)
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
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging, preferably in the morning.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
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, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKleinia cephalophora is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicKleinia cephalophora is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicKleinia cephalophora is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Kleinia cephalophora?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Kleinia cephalophora require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Kleinia cephalophora toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets; it is advisable to keep it out of reach of animals.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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