Desert Bells
kalanchoe humilis
Also known as: ["Rat's Tail Kalanchoe","Marnier's Kalanchoe"]
Overview
A succulent plant with striking purple and green variegated leaves and tubular flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe humilis |
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":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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 coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 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 direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of day; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 14–21 days in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
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.
- Keep humid and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove spent flower stalks at the base.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; 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; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; inspect roots; water sparingly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent standing moisture; 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. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings during dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting; buds may fail to open in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold exposure; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate ventilation; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves; pause in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe humilis. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac toxicity, including arrhythmias, heart failure, and potentially fatal outcomes. The toxins affect the heart muscle and disrupt normal cardiac rhythm.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, Kalanchoe humilis is toxic due to its cardiac glycoside content, which can cause severe cardiac issues, including arrhythmias, heart failure, and potentially death. The toxins disrupt normal heart function and electrolyte balance.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKalanchoe humilis contains cardiac glycosides, which can affect the heart and circulatory system when ingested in significant quantities. The toxins interfere with electrolyte balance and cardiac function, leading to potential arrhythmias and other cardiovascular disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe humilis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Kalanchoe humilis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Kalanchoe humilis flower indoors?
A: Yes, it can produce tubular flowers indoors under bright light conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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