Overview
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is a succulent plant belonging to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to the Democratic Republic of Congo and is commonly found in the central and eastern parts of the country.Common Names
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild., also known as "Felt Bush," is known by various local names in Congo such as "Bungulu," "Kilumba," and "Lufu."Appearance
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is a slow-growing, mostly erect succulent that can reach a height of up to 80cm. The plant has several stems growing from a basal rosette, with the stems and leaves covered in a white felt-like texture that helps to prevent water loss. The leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape, 3-6cm long, and 2-3cm wide, with a bluish-grey color and irregularly shaped margins. The flowers are small and pink, appearing in clusters on a branched inflorescence that can reach 40cm long.Uses
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is mostly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage. The plant is drought-resistant, making it an ideal houseplant for those who tend to forget to water their plants. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as headaches and snakebites. Additionally, the plant's leaves are used to feed livestock during the dry season.Light Requirements
The Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimum growth. It is important to avoid direct sunlight exposure as it can scorch the leaves of the plant. The ideal location for this plant is where it can get filtered light or partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It is important to avoid exposing the plant to extreme hot or cold temperatures as it can have adverse effects on its growth. The plant can also tolerate low humidity levels as long as the soil is kept moist.
Soil Requirements
The Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. requires well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients for optimum growth. It is important to add a good amount of organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility. The soil PH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant is sensitive to waterlogging, so it is essential to ensure proper drainage of the pot or container.
Cultivation Methods
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is a succulent plant that grows best in bright, indirect light. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but should be protected from heavy rains and frost. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is best to plant it in well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Needs
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the eventual death of the plant. It is best to wait until the soil has dried out before watering. During the winter months, the plant can go up to a month without water. If in doubt, it is better to underwater than overwater.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. It is best to dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent burning the plant's roots. During the winter months, fertilization can be stopped entirely.
Pruning
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. does not require significant pruning, but it can benefit from occasional trimming to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Dead or yellowing leaves should be removed promptly to prevent them from draining the plant's energy. Pinching off the plant's tips during the growing season can also encourage branching and fuller growth.
Propagation methods of Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild.
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is a succulent plant that originates from Madagascar. It is a popular houseplant that is known for its unique silver-green leaves. Propagation of this plant can be done in different ways, including:
1. Leaf cuttings
One of the easiest ways to propagate Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is through leaf cuttings. Select a healthy leaf and remove it from the plant by gently twisting it. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days until a callus forms on the cut end. Once the callus has formed, place the leaf on a well-draining potting mix and lightly water it. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. After a few weeks, new roots and a small plantlet will emerge from the base of the leaf.
2. Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. Take a healthy stem and remove a 4 to 6-inch cutting from it. Allow the cutting to dry for a few days until a callus forms on the cut end. Once the callus has formed, plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and lightly water it. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. After a few weeks, the cutting will start producing new leaves and roots.
3. Division
Propagation of Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. can also be done through division. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate the offsets from the main plant. Each offset should have its own roots. Plant the offsets in a well-draining potting mix and lightly water them. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. After a few weeks, the plantlets will start producing new leaves and roots.
Propagation of Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is relatively easy, and you can have a new plant in just a few weeks. Whichever method you choose to use, it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and to place the plant in a bright, indirect light.
Disease and Pest Management for Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild.
Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. is a beautiful and exotic plant that is native to Africa. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can cause damage and ultimately lead to the death of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. and how to manage them.
Diseases:
Some common diseases that can affect Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. are:
1. Powdery Mildew:
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. It can cause stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant dry and avoid watering the leaves. You can also remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
2. Root Rot:
Root rot is a common fungal disease that can affect Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. It is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Symptoms of root rot include brown, mushy roots and yellowing leaves. To manage root rot, it is important to reduce watering and improve drainage. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pests:
Some common pests that can affect Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. are:
1. Mealybugs:
Mealybugs are small white insects that can be found on the leaves of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and leaf drop. To manage mealybugs, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also remove the insects manually with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
2. Spider Mites:
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. They can cause a web-like substance to appear on the leaves and can cause leaf yellowing and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, you can wash the plant with water or use an insecticidal soap. You can also spray the plant with neem oil.
By properly managing diseases and pests, you can ensure the health and longevity of your Kalanchoe bequaertii De Wild. plant. It is important to regularly inspect your plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation and treat them immediately to prevent further damage.
