General Description
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to Madagascar and is commonly known by the name “Kalanchoe”.
The plant is well-known for its ability to adapt to various conditions, which has made it a popular houseplant choice for many people around the world. It can grow up to 60 cm in height and spreads up to 45 cm in width.
Kalanchoe crenata has thick, fleshy, dark green leaves with scalloped edges and a velvet-like texture. The edges of the leaves are lined with tiny purple teeth, which gives it a distinctive appearance. The plant produces clusters of small pink, red, or white flowers on long stalks that bloom in the winter and spring months.
Origin and Distribution
Kalanchoe crenata is native to Madagascar, an island located off the southeastern coast of Africa. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world due to its ornamental value and medicinal properties.
The plant is commonly found in the dry deciduous forests and rocky hillsides of Madagascar, where it is used for traditional medicine purposes. The leaves and stem of the plant are used in the treatment of wounds, fever, and other conditions.
Common Names
Kalanchoe crenata is known by several common names, including “Kalanchoe”, “Crenate-leaf Kalanchoe”, “Kalanchoe dentata”, and “Kalanchoe bieensis”.
Uses and Benefits
The plant is mostly valued for its ornamental value as a beautiful houseplant. It is easy to care for and can thrive in various conditions, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening.
In addition to its ornamental value, Kalanchoe crenata is also known for its medicinal properties. The extract from the leaves of the plant has been used traditionally in the treatment of various ailments, including respiratory infections, headaches, and skin conditions.
The plant is also used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that extracts from the leaves of Kalanchoe crenata may have anticancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. requires bright light to support its growth. Direct sunlight can cause damage to the plant, so it is best to place it where it receives filtered or indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. is between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can be detrimental to the plant's health, while temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can cause the plant to wither and die.
Soil Requirements
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite is ideal for this plant. It is important not to overwater the plant, as it can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Cultivation Methods
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. is a plant that needs to be cultivated in well-drained soil. A sandy or loamy soil that has good drainage is ideal for this plant. The plant can be grown in an outdoor garden or indoors in a pot. The plant should be placed in full or partial sunlight and should not be overwatered. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but should be protected from frost.
Watering Needs
It is important not to overwater Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. due to the risk of root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but this may vary depending on the humidity and temperature. If the leaves are wilting, then the plant needs to be watered more often.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. tends to grow well without fertilization, but if you choose to apply fertilizer, it should be applied sparingly. It is recommended to use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt build-up in the soil, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. does not require pruning often, but if the plant starts to look leggy, you can prune it back to encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune is in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut back the stem just above a leaf node using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruners. Avoid pruning during the winter months, when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Kalanchoe crenata subsp. bieensis
Kalanchoe crenata subsp. bieensis can be propagated through both sexually and asexually.
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces small flowers that self-pollinate easily, resulting in the formation of tiny seed pods. When the seed pods turn brown and dry, they can be harvested and sown in soil or seed trays. A well-draining compost mix should be used to cover the tiny seeds, which should be kept moist. Germination can occur in around seven days, with young plants emerging in around 2-3 weeks.
Asexual Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Kalanchoe crenata subsp. bieensis is through stem cuttings. Select healthy and mature stems, around 10 cm in length, and cut them just below the node with a sharp, sterile blade. Allow the cuttings to dry and heal for a day or two. Once the cuttings have calloused, they can be placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. The cuttings will root in around 2-3 weeks, resulting in new plants.
The plant can also be propagated through leaf cuttings. Select a mature leaf and cut it from the plant. Allow the base of the leaf to dry for a day or two and then plant it into a well-draining compost mix, keeping it moist. After around 2-3 weeks, roots will develop from the base of the leaf, and a new plant will emerge.
Disease and Pest Management for Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern.
Despite being a hardy succulent, Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. is not immune to diseases and pests. Below are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial Leaf Spot - This disease is characterized by the presence of dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves. It is caused by a bacterium that thrives in wet conditions. To manage this disease, it is crucial to avoid overwatering, promote good air circulation and hygiene. Affected plants should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Root Rot - Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can lead to this disease. When this happens, the roots will appear brown and mushy, and the plant will wilt. To manage root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure the soil has good drainage. Infected plants should be removed, and the soil should be replaced or sterilized to prevent reinfection.
Powdery Mildew- A white powdery substance will appear on leaves and sometimes stems, decreasing photosynthesis and plant growth. To prevent powdery mildew from developing, ensure proper ventilation and spacing and avoid leaf wetting.
Pests
Spider Mites- These tiny pests are usually found on the bottom of leaves. As they feed on plant sap, the leaves will appear stippled and yellow. Regularly inspecting plants and washing leaves with a strong water blast could be useful in preventing spider mite infestations. Insecticidal soaps or oils might also be necessary for population control.
Mealybugs- Mealybugs resemble small balls of cotton and can be found in clusters around the base of leaves or around stems. For control, the insects can be physically removed or with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol applied to affected spots. Using insecticidal soap or oils can also help reduce their population.
Kalanchoe crenata (Andrews) Haw. subsp. bieensis R.Fern. diseases and pests can cause significant harm to the plant, but following good horticultural practices and timely intervention can prevent its establishment and spread.
