Origin
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to Madagascar and is found growing in the dry deciduous forest regions of the country.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Velvet Leaf Kalanchoe.
Uses
The plant has both medicinal and ornamental uses. In some parts of Madagascar, a decoction of the leaves and stems is used to treat various ailments including stomach aches and inflammation. The plant is also known for its ornamental value and is often grown as a houseplant in other parts of the world.
General Appearance
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. is a small, shrubby succulent plant that can grow up to 50cm in height. It has thick, succulent leaves that are covered in tiny hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The leaves are oblong to lanceolate in shape and are about 5-10cm long. The plant produces small, tubular, pinkish-red flowers that are arranged in clusters on long stalks. The flowers bloom in late winter to early spring.
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii requires bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much direct sunlight can cause damage to the leaves. It is best to place the plant near a window that receives morning or afternoon sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii prefers warm temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but it is best to keep it away from cold drafts and frost.
Soil Requirements
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii requires well-draining soil. A mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite is ideal for this plant. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Cultivation methods
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. is a succulent species that thrives in well-drained soil. It requires bright, indirect light and prefers to be grown in temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. This plant can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 and is a popular choice for rock gardens and xeriscaping.
Watering needs
When it comes to watering, Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. has specific needs. It should be watered sparingly and only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues. It's best to water the plant deeply and then allow it to completely dry out before watering again.
Fertilization
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. doesn't require much fertilization. A balanced, liquid fertilizer can be applied monthly during the spring and summer growing season. It's important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to weak growth and other issues.
Pruning
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. doesn't require much pruning, but dead leaves and spent flower stalks can be removed as needed. Pruning should be done in the spring or early summer before new growth begins. The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the pruning process.
Propagation of Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern.
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. is a succulent plant that can be propagated through various methods, including:
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are the most common propagation method used for Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. To start, simply take a leaf cutting with a clean, sharp blade. Allow the leaf to dry for a few days so that the cut end has time to callus over. Once the cut has healed, place the leaf, cut-side down, in well-draining soil. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch. Roots and new growth should begin to emerge in a few weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. Take a stem cutting using a sharp, clean blade. Allow the cut end to dry and callus over for a few days. Once the cut has healed, place the stem cutting in a container of well-draining soil. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch. Roots and new growth should begin to emerge in a few weeks.
Division
Division is another propagation method that can be used for Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. This method is best done when the plant has become too large or has started to produce offsets. Carefully remove the plant from its container and gently tease the individual plants apart. Replant each individual plant into its own container of well-draining soil. Water the plants sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Seed Propagation
Lastly, Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. can also be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. Place the container in a warm, bright area, and new growth should begin to emerge in a few weeks. Once the plants have grown to a suitable size, transplant them into larger containers or into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern.
Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. is a succulent plant that is relatively easy to maintain. However, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some common issues that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot: Crown rot is a common fungal disease that affects the roots and stems of Kalanchoe velutina plants. The affected areas turn soft and mushy, and the leaves might wilt or turn yellow.
To manage crown rot, remove the affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and make sure the plant gets enough sunlight. You can also use a fungicide to treat the soil.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that affects succulent plants like Kalanchoe velutina. It manifests as small, brownish-black spots on the leaves.
To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and avoid getting water on the foliage. Water the plant at the soil level and avoid overcrowding the plants.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that affect succulent plants. They look like small, fuzzy cotton balls on the stems and leaves of the plant.
To manage mealybugs, wipe them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap to prevent infestations.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are another common pest that affects Kalanchoe velutina plants. They are tiny, reddish-brown insects that cluster on the undersides of the leaves.
To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil. You can also use insecticidal soap to kill the pests.
By following these tips, you can help prevent and manage common diseases and pests that might affect Kalanchoe velutina Welw. ex Britten subsp. dangeardii (Raym.-Hamet) R.Fern. Always monitor your plants and respond promptly to any signs of problems.
