Overview: Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. is a subspecies of the Kalanchoe velutina plant and belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is commonly referred to as the Chimanimani kalanchoe and is native to Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
Appearance:
The Chimanimani kalanchoe is a small shrub that can grow up to 60 centimeters tall. It has succulent leaves that are covered with tiny hairs, giving it a velvety appearance. The leaves are usually a bluish-green color and have a rounded shape with a pointed tip. The flowers of this plant are small and tubular, with a pale pink to white color.
Uses:
The Chimanimani kalanchoe has various medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. It has been used to treat various ailments, such as headaches, fever, and wounds. The sap of the plant has been used to treat skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
Aside from its medicinal value, the Chimanimani kalanchoe is a popular ornamental plant. It is grown as a houseplant in many parts of the world for its attractive velvety leaves. It is also a great addition to rock gardens, succulent gardens, and xeriscapes.
Conclusion:
The Chimanimani kalanchoe is a fascinating succulent with both medicinal and ornamental value. It can be grown easily both indoors and outdoors, making it a great addition to any garden or home. If you're looking for a low-maintenance plant with an otherworldly appearance, the Chimanimani kalanchoe is an excellent choice.
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to place the plant in a location with filtered sunlight. A south-facing window with a sheer curtain can provide the perfect amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers a temperature range between 60-80°F (16-27°C). It is important to keep the plant away from drafts, air conditioning, and heating vents as sudden changes in temperature can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. requires well-draining soil with good aeration. A mixture of potting soil, perlite, and sand can create an ideal soil mix for this plant. Additionally, the plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.
Cultivation Methods
When planting Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern., it is essential to choose a spot where it can receive plenty of sunlight. The plant also prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is best to plant in spring or summer and ensure that the soil temperature is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Since the plant is susceptible to root rot, make sure to plant it in a container with drainage holes or in a raised bed. It is also advisable to add some sand or perlite to the soil mix to ensure that it is well-draining.
Watering Needs
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. requires consistent watering during its growth phase. However, overwatering can cause root rot, which is detrimental to the plant. Therefore, it is recommended to water the plant once a week during the growing season.
During the winter months, you can reduce the frequency of watering, and it is best to let the soil dry out a bit between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. is not a heavy feeder, and therefore, a light application of fertilizer, during the growing season, will suffice. You can apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.
However, avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months when it is not actively growing.
Pruning
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. does not require extensive pruning, but it would benefit from occasional trimming to promote bushy growth. You can pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage branching.
You can also prune any unhealthy or damaged parts of the plant to boost its overall health. It is best to prune the plant during its growing season.
Propagation of Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern.
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings are one of the easiest and most common methods to propagate Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. Select healthy leaves and remove them from the mother plant. Then, let the cut end dry for a few days before sticking it into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and place the cutting in a bright location out of direct sunlight. New roots and plantlets will develop in a few weeks, and once they are large enough, they can be transplanted into their own pots.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. Take a cutting from the tip of a healthy stem, making sure it has at least one node. Remove the leaves from the lower two-thirds of the stem and let the cut end dry for a day or two. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water it lightly. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright location out of direct sunlight. In a few weeks, new growth and roots will appear, and the young plant can be transplanted into its own container.
Division
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can also be propagated through division. Carefully remove the plant from its container and separate it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has healthy roots and leaves. Replant each section into its own container, using a well-draining soil mix, and water the soil lightly. Keep the newly divided plants in a bright location out of direct sunlight and watch for new growth to appear.
With proper care and attention, Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. can be easily propagated using these methods, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of this plant in multiple locations.
Disease Management
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. is generally a relatively healthy plant. However, it is still susceptible to some diseases that can impact its growth and overall health. These diseases include:
- Grey mould: This disease is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. It can cause the leaves and stems to become covered in a fuzzy grey mould and can eventually cause them to wilt and die. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any affected plant parts immediately and adjust environmental conditions to minimize humidity.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage, leading to root damage and decay. To manage this, it is important to provide good drainage for the soil, ensure the plant is not overwatered and avoid using too much fertilizer.
- Leaf spots: This disease can be caused by a number of fungi and bacteria, resulting in brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this, remove any affected leaves immediately and adjust environmental humidity and lighting conditions. Use of appropriate fungicides can also be helpful.
Pest Management
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. chimanimanensis (R.Fern.) R.Fern. is occasionally affected by pests that can cause damage to the plant. The most common pests are:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests are difficult to detect, but they can cause the plant to take on a yellowed, sickly appearance. To control spider mites, wash the plant thoroughly with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Mealybugs: These pests feed on the plant sap and can cause yellowing, wilting and stunted growth. They are characterized by white, cottony masses along the stems or at the base of leaves. To control mealybugs, it is important to remove the affected plant parts immediately and use an appropriate insecticide.
- Scale insects: These pests can be identified as small, brown bumps on the stems and leaves. They can suck sap and cause the plant to weaken and become stunted. To control scale insects, remove affected plant parts and use horticultural oils or appropriate insecticides.
