Origin
Kalanchoe sexangularis var. sexangularis is native to the Cape Province in South Africa. It is commonly found growing in dry, rocky areas.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Six-Angled Kalanchoe or the Six-Sided Widow's-thrill, due to the shape of its leaves.
Uses
Kalanchoe sexangularis var. sexangularis is often cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its unique shape and attractive flowers. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including headaches and skin conditions.
General Appearance
Kalanchoe sexangularis var. sexangularis is a succulent perennial plant that can grow up to 50 cm tall. The leaves are six-sided, fleshy, and have a bluish-green color. The edges of the leaves are toothed, and the tips of the leaves are pointed. The plant produces clusters of small, tubular, pinkish-red flowers that appear in winter and spring.
Growth Conditions for Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis is a succulent plant native to Madagascar. This plant is commonly found in rocky areas, and it can tolerate dry conditions, making it a popular choice for home gardeners. To ensure optimal growth of this plant, specific environmental conditions need to be met.
Light
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis requires bright, indirect light to thrive. This plant should not be placed in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to burn. A location that receives six hours of sun per day is ideal for this plant.
Temperature
This species of Kalanchoe prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). It should be noted that this plant can withstand temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C). If temperatures drop below this range, the plant will enter a dormant state, and growth will cease.
Soil and Water
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A mixture of sand, perlite, and potting soil provides adequate drainage. Watering should be done sparingly, and the soil should be allowed to dry out completely between watering intervals. Overwatering can lead to fungal growth and root rot, causing the plant to die.
By providing the ideal growth conditions of light, temperature, and soil, this plant can thrive and make an excellent addition to any garden or indoor space.
Cultivation methods for Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. It is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11, but it can be grown indoors in colder climates. The plant can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height and can spread up to 18 inches (45 cm) wide.
Watering needs for Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis prefers soil that is kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues.
Fertilization for Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis does not require frequent fertilization. You can use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once every six months or a liquid fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis does not require pruning, but you can pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage bushier growth and remove any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance. Be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation Methods for Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis is a popular ornamental plant that can be propagated by various methods, including:
Stem Cuttings
One of the most common methods used to propagate Kalanchoe sexangularis is by stem cuttings. To do this, select a healthy stem that has at least two leaves. Cut the stem about 5-10 cm from the base and remove the lower leaves. Let the cut end of the stem dry overnight before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil slightly moist and place the cutting in an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
Leaf Cuttings
Another way to propagate Kalanchoe sexangularis is through leaf cuttings. Select a healthy, mature leaf and carefully remove it from the plant. Cut the leaf into three to four sections and let them dry overnight. Plant each section in well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil slightly moist. Leave the cuttings in an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
Division
Another option to propagate Kalanchoe sexangularis is through division. This method is best done during the plant's active growth period. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and separate the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Repot the new sections in fresh soil and water well. Place the newly divided plants in an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
Seed Propagation
Lastly, Kalanchoe sexangularis can also be propagated using seeds. Collect the seeds from the plant's flowers and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. Cover them with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. Place the container in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. After germination, thin out the seedlings and repot them into larger containers when they grow big enough.
Disease and Pest Management of Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis
Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis is relatively easy to care for, but it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that may affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: leaf spot is caused by the fungus Alternaria sp. and can be identified by small brown spots on the leaves. The disease can spread quickly and cause the plant to lose its leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Ensure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
2. Root rot: root rot is caused by overwatering and can be identified by the plant's wilting, yellow leaves, and mushy roots. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant from the soil, trim the infected roots, repot in fresh, well-draining soil, and reduce watering.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: mealybugs are common pests that affect Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis. They can be identified by white, cotton-like masses on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage mealybugs, isolate the infected plant, remove as many of the bugs as you can with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, and treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
2. Spider mites: spider mites are tiny pests that are challenging to identify because they are so small. They can be identified by the fine webbing they produce on the plant's leaves. To manage spider mites, remove the infected leaves, increase the plant's humidity by misting the leaves regularly, and treat the plant with an insecticidal soap.
Regularly check your Kalanchoe sexangularis N.E.Br. var. sexangularis for any signs of disease or pests. Early detection is crucial in preventing any spread. With proper care and management, this plant can thrive for years to come.
