Chandelier Plant, Mother of Millions, Air Plant
kalanchoe delagoensis
Also known as: ["Chandelier Plant","Mother of Millions","Air Plant","Chandelier Tree","Devil's Backbone"]
Overview
A succulent plant known for its ability to produce numerous plantlets along the edges of its leaves, leading to rapid propagation.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Kalanchoe |
| Botanical Name: | Kalanchoe delagoensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor rock garden
- 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; essential to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, focusing on older or leggy stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct sunlight but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to direct sun over 1–2 weeks; place in east or south-facing windows indoors; move outdoor plants to shaded areas during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid prolonged direct sun in summer; provide shade during hottest part of the day.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil to avoid root shock; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also be used but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch stem cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with bright indirect light; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio); can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder or gel.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile scissors or knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed rooting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove any yellowing or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems; best done in spring before active growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant evenly; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure thorough saturation without pooling; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil; ensure soil is loose and airy to prevent compaction.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress; wilting in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or discoloration; increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow; increased water demand to prevent dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation; mist foliage lightly if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe delagoensis, which can lead to life-threatening cardiac issues and systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Kalanchoe delagoensis can cause severe cardiac arrhythmias, gastrointestinal upset, and electrolyte imbalances in dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicKalanchoe delagoensis contains cardiac glycosides, which can disrupt heart function and electrolyte balance. Ingestion can lead to serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kalanchoe delagoensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How does Kalanchoe delagoensis propagate?
A: It produces numerous plantlets along the edges of its leaves that can root and grow into new plants.
Q: What are the care requirements for Kalanchoe delagoensis?
A: It requires bright sunlight, well-draining soil, and minimal watering, making it suitable for low-maintenance gardening.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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