Origin
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake, also known as felt bush or panda plant, is a succulent plant that is native to Madagascar. It grows in various habitats, including dry forests and rocky terrain.
Common Names
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is commonly known as felt bush due to its fuzzy leaves that feel like felt when touched. It is also called the panda plant because its leaves resemble a panda's ears. Other common names include velvet elephant ear and plush plant.
Uses
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance. It is often used in gardens, terrariums, and as a houseplant. The leaves of the plant are sometimes used in traditional medicine to treat wounds and infections.
General Appearance
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is a slow-growing succulent that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The leaves of the plant are large and thick, growing up to 8 inches long and 4 inches wide. They are gray-green in color and covered in fine hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. The edges of the leaves are serrated and can take on a reddish-brown color. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are pink or yellow in color and bloom in late winter or early spring.
Growth Conditions for Kalanchoe beharensis Drake
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is a succulent plant typically found in Madagascar. As with any other plant species, providing the right growth conditions is crucial for its survival and healthy development.
Light
Kalanchoe beharensis requires strong sunlight to grow properly. This plant needs at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a sunny window, where it can get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Temperature
The temperature range that is ideal for Kalanchoe beharensis is between 60-85°F (15-29°C). The plant can tolerate brief temperature drops to 50°F (10°C), but anything lower than this for an extended period will cause damage or death. Additionally, the plant cannot survive temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
Soil Requirements
Kalanchoe beharensis requires well-drained, sandy soil. The soil should have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. You can improve soil drainage by adding sand or perlite. It's also important to note that the plant does not require frequent watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is dangerous for the plant's health.
Providing the right growth conditions is critical to the health of the Kalanchoe beharensis plant. By following these guidelines for light, temperature, and soil requirements, you can ensure that your plant thrives and grows to its full potential.
Cultivation Methods
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake, also known as felt bush, is a plant that can be propagated from cuttings. It grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant needs to be placed in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a sunny window. If grown outdoors, it should be given some protection from intense sunlight.
Watering Needs
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake should be watered moderately. Do not let the soil dry out completely, but avoid watering too frequently. Overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant is somewhat drought-tolerant, but it is still important to keep the soil moist. In the winter, it should be watered less frequently than in the summer.
Fertilization
During the growing season, Kalanchoe beharensis Drake should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when fertilizing.
Pruning
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake can be pruned to control its size and shape. Pruning can be done at any time of year, but it is best done in the spring. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Prune the stem just above a leaf node. Dead or damaged leaves should also be pruned as needed.
Propagation of Kalanchoe beharensis Drake
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake, commonly known as Velvet elephant ear, is a succulent shrub from Madagascar. The plant has distinct velvety, silver-green leaves with brown felt-like coating on the undersides. Propagation of Kalanchoe beharensis Drake can be done through various methods:
Propagation through stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are the easiest method to propagate Kalanchoe beharensis Drake. This method involves taking a healthy stem cutting from the plant. Select a stem that is at least 3-4 inches long and has a few leaves on it. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and let the stem dry for 24 hours. Next, dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and cover it with a plastic bag to retain humidity. Place the cutting in a bright, indirect sunlight area and wait for roots to form in a few weeks.
Propagation through leaf cuttings
Another propagation method for Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is through leaf cuttings. Select a healthy leaf and gently remove it from the plant. Let the leaf dry for a few hours to form a callus on the cut end. Once the leaf has callused, plant it in well-draining soil. Water the soil and cover it with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the cutting in indirect sunlight and wait for roots to form at the base of the leaf. Once the plant has taken root, you can transplant it to a larger pot and care for it as a mature plant.
Propagation through seeds
Propagation through seeds is a longer and more challenging method for Kalanchoe beharensis Drake. Collect the seeds from a mature plant and sow them in well-draining soil. Ensure that the soil is moist but not wet and cover the pot with plastic to retain humidity. Place the container in a bright, warm area, and wait for the plant to grow. Seed propagation can take several months to a year, depending on the growing conditions and the seed quality.
Propagation of Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is an easy and cost-effective way to grow more of this beautiful plant. Ensure that the environmental conditions are suitable, and the soil is well-draining, making it a perfect houseplant.
Disease and Pest Management for Kalanchoe beharensis Drake
Kalanchoe beharensis Drake, also known as felt bush, is a succulent plant that is native to Madagascar. While it is generally a hardy plant, it can be susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can lead to a decline in health and appearance. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Kalanchoe beharensis Drake and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: One of the most common diseases affecting Kalanchoe beharensis Drake is root rot, which is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing, and soft, mushy stems. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and that the pot has drainage holes. Avoid overwatering the plant, and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. If root rot has already set in, you should remove the plant from the soil, trim off any rotting roots, and repot it in fresh, dry soil.
Fungal infections: Fungal infections can also occur on Kalanchoe beharensis Drake, especially in humid conditions. Signs of a fungal infection include spots on the leaves and stem, as well as leaf drop. To prevent fungal infections, make sure the plant is in a well-ventilated area and avoid getting water on the leaves and stem. If a fungal infection has already occurred, you should treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that can infest the leaves and stems of Kalanchoe beharensis Drake. They feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To get rid of mealybugs, you can apply an insecticidal soap or wipe down the plant with alcohol. You may need to repeat the treatment several times to fully eliminate the infestation.
Scale insects: Scale insects are another common pest that can affect Kalanchoe beharensis Drake. They look like small, brown bumps on the leaves and stems and can cause wilting and leaf drop. To get rid of scale insects, you can apply an insecticidal soap or wipe down the plant with alcohol. You may need to repeat the treatment several times to fully eliminate the infestation.
By taking these measures, you can help prevent and manage diseases and pests on your Kalanchoe beharensis Drake and keep it healthy and thriving.
