Origin and Common Names
Kalanchoe tubiflora (Harv.) Raym.-Hamet, commonly known as "Chandelier Plant," "Mother of Millions," or "Devil's Backbone," is a succulent plant originating from Madagascar. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is closely related to other popular houseplants such as jade plants and echeverias.General Appearance
Kalanchoe tubiflora is a striking plant with a unique appearance. It has a sprawling growth habit, with stems that can reach up to 3 feet in length. The thick, fleshy leaves are arranged in an alternating pattern and can be up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. They are gray-green in color with a red margin and have tubular structures on the edges which store water. The chandelier-like appearance is created by the unique formation of plantlets, which grow on the leaf margins. These plantlets look like miniature clones of the parent plant and are attached to the leaf margins by long, tube-like structures.Uses
Kalanchoe tubiflora is commonly grown as an ornamental houseplant due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. The plant's leaves are often crushed and applied topically to wounds and burns to promote healing. However, it is important to note that Kalanchoe tubiflora is a toxic plant and should be kept away from children and pets. The plant contains cardiac glycosides which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.Light Requirements
Kalanchoe tubiflora thrives in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch its leaves. It is best to place it near a north-facing window or a spot where it can receive bright, filtered light for 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Kalanchoe tubiflora prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 40°F (4°C), so it is important to keep it away from air conditioning units or windows during colder months. However, it can survive lower temperatures for short periods of time.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial for the health of Kalanchoe tubiflora. A mix of potting soil and perlite or coarse sand is recommended to ensure proper drainage. The plant also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It is important to avoid overwatering, as the roots can easily rot in waterlogged soil.
Cultivation Methods
Kalanchoe tubiflora thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil. You can plant it in a pot or on the ground, but ensure that the soil is porous and has a pH value of 6.0 to 7.5. It is best to propagate the plant during spring through stem cuttings. Before planting, let the cutting dry for a few days and then plant it in sandy soil.
Watering Needs
Kalanchoe tubiflora requires moderate watering. Water the plant thoroughly when the soil feels dry to the touch. However, be sure not to overwater, as that may cause root rot. During the growing season, from spring to summer, the plant may need more water than in the dormant season. During winter, water the plant sparingly.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe tubiflora requires regular fertilization for healthy growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season. However, avoid fertilizing during the dormant season. For best results, fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Pruning
Kalanchoe tubiflora requires minimal pruning. However, pruning can help maintain its shape and size and encourage bushier growth. Trim off any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and branches as required. During the growing season, pinch off the tips of the plant's stems to encourage lateral branching and fuller growth.
Propagation of Kalanchoe tubiflora
Kalanchoe tubiflora, commonly known as Chandelier Plant, is propagated through vegetative means and seeds.
Propagation Through Vegetative Means
Kalanchoe tubiflora can be propagated through stem and leaf cuttings.
Stem cuttings: Take a stem cutting of around 8-10 cm in length and remove the leaves from the lower half. Allow the cuttings to dry for a day and then plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light source. The cutting will start to take root in 2-4 weeks.
Leaf cuttings: Take a mature leaf from the plant and allow it to dry for a day. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light source. The leaf will start to take root in 3-5 weeks.
Propagation Through Seeds
Kalanchoe tubiflora can also be propagated through seeds.
Planting seeds: Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light source. The seeds will start to germinate in 2-4 weeks.
Propagation through vegetative means is recommended over propagation through seeds as the latter method takes longer and is less reliable in producing plants with the exact characteristics as the parent plant.
Disease Management
Kalanchoe tubiflora is susceptible to diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Cercospora, resulting in tan to brown spots on the leaves. Root rot is caused by overwatering and leads to the decay of the roots. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that results in white powdery growth on the leaves.
To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides such as copper-based sprays can also be applied. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Repot the plant in fresh, sterile soil. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation and reduce humidity. Fungicides such as neem oil or sulfur can also be used.
Pest Management
Common pests that affect Kalanchoe tubiflora include spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and wither. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that also suck the sap from the plant.
To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with a strong spray of water or apply insecticidal soap. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings also helps control spider mites. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can also be used. Ensure to isolate affected plants to prevent the spread of pests to other plants in the collection.
